masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgThe Orioles’ search for a left-handed hitting outfielder has led them to Hyun-soo Kim, who agreed to terms on a two-year contract and is headed to Baltimore, according to an industry source.
The deal is worth $7 million, according to the source, and it’s pending the completion of a physical that will take place late Thursday and Friday.
Multiple reports out of Korea had Kim flying into D.C. today, a strong hint that the Orioles reached an agreement.
Kim, who turns 28 in January, is a career…

The Orioles’ search for a left-handed hitting outfielder has led them to Hyun-soo Kim, who agreed to terms on a two-year contract and is headed to Baltimore, according to an industry source.

The deal is worth $7 million, according to the source, and it’s pending the completion of a physical that will take place late Thursday and Friday.

Multiple reports out of Korea had Kim flying into D.C. today, a strong hint that the Orioles reached an agreement.

duquette-smiles-sidebar.jpgKim, who turns 28 in January, is a career .318/.406/.488 hitter in 10 seasons in the Korean Baseball Organization. He attained career highs this year with 28 home runs, 121 RBIs and 101 walks in 141 games with the Doosan Bears, and he struck out only 63 times in 630 plate appearances.

Strong on-base capabilities and a good eye at the plate attracted the Orioles to Kim, and it’s possible that he breaks camp next spring as their leadoff hitter. He also has played first base, but is expected to compete for the starting job in left field.

Kim wasn’t subjected to the posting process, which freed him up to sign with any team after batting .326/.438/.541 this season. It’s believed that he received better offers to remain in Korea, but he wanted to play in the majors.

Kim has earned the nickname “Iron Man” in Korea for his durability, which also makes him a good fit with the Orioles.

Executive vice president Dan Duquette continues to tap into the Asian market. He’s hoping for a better return than what the club received from pitcher Suk-min Yoon, who was injured and never reached the majors before returning home.