Veteran batter Son Ah-seop has secured a one-year contract with the Hanwha Eagles worth 100 million won. This modest agreement, down sharply from his previous 500 million won salary, presents an opportunity for the 40-year-old to reaffirm his value on the field.23
Contract Announcement
Hanwha Eagles officials confirmed the deal, stating, “Son Ah-seop’s extensive experience and strong hitting skills will provide a boost to the team.” The signing ends a prolonged negotiation period where Son remained the last unsigned free agent in the KBO.7
Impressive Career Stats
Since debuting in 2007, Son has played 19 seasons, appearing in 2,169 games and collecting 2,618 hits—the most in KBO history. His consistent production has made him a fan favorite and a reliable veteran presence.18
Recent Performance and Setbacks
Last season, Son transferred from the NC Dinos to Hanwha via trade. He delivered in 111 games with 107 hits, one home run, 50 RBIs, 39 runs scored, and a .288 batting average. His Hanwha debut marked his best Korean Series performance in 19 years, but a wrist injury halted his momentum.12
Classed as a C-grade FA, Son received 750 million won in compensation. Injuries prevented him from attending 10 teams’ spring camps, contributing to tempered market interest despite his proven track record.
Analysts’ Views on His Value
Experts note that while Son’s hit production and leadership remain assets, his age and reduced power output factor into lower evaluations. Securing a starting role will be key to maximizing his contributions. Negotiations dragged on without a long-term offer, with some even speculating retirement, though insiders affirm his ongoing competitiveness.
Son Speaks Out
In a recent YouTube interview with a major fan channel, Son declared, “I still have the strength to make my presence felt among the young players, so I’m focused on competing without giving up.” He added, “Even if it’s tough, I want to show these kids that this player is still here. I’m still a player.”12
Son departed for Japan’s Kochi, site of Hanwha’s futures spring camp—not the first-team camp in Australia Melbourne. Addressing concerns about impacting team dynamics, he responded via airport interview relayed by club staff: “With issues surrounding me while the team trains, I’m mindful not to disrupt the atmosphere and focus on my responsibilities.” He joins the camp on February 6 to prepare for the season.1321
