Trade rumors surrounding Lee Jung-hoo (28, San Francisco Giants) continue to swirl. Local media in San Francisco have now started to address the possibility.
On Tuesday, the local outlet SF Gate reported that with just two weeks remaining until the trade deadline, Lee’s name keeps popping up in trade discussions.
The outlet highlighted Lee’s popularity in San Francisco, noting that his fan appeal is evident from the crowd’s reaction when he steps up to the plate and the bustling activity around his merchandise in the team store.
However, they also pointed out that the likelihood of Lee being traded has increased to about 50%, with trade rumors gaining significant traction recently.
The Giants are currently struggling with a 42-57 record (.424), placing them fourth in the National League West. They trail the division-leading Los Angeles Dodgers (63-36) by a whopping 21 games and sit 10th in the wild card race. With a 9.5-game gap separating them from the St. Louis Cardinals (51-47), who hold the final playoff spot, their postseason hopes appear slim.
This situation has fueled speculation that the team might look to offload high-salary players like Lee and initiate a rebuilding phase.
On the same day, Sporting News reported growing optimism across the league that Lee won’t exercise his opt-out clause after the 2027 season. This development could make it easier for San Francisco to find potential trade partners this summer.
The outlet added that even if San Francisco doesn’t receive a blockbuster return, the reduced opt-out concerns mean the compensation is likely to be more favorable than previously expected.
Speculation has also emerged about potential landing spots for Lee. Sporting News suggested he could be an attractive option for playoff contenders looking to bolster their outfield. They mentioned the Houston Astros, who are in the market for a left-handed outfielder, as well as the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago White Sox, and Atlanta Braves as teams that could be good fits for Lee.