The Chosun Ilbo reported on November 1 that the chance Lee Jung-hoo becomes a free agent is a variable in this offseason’s trade talk. His six-year, $113 million contract with San Francisco includes an opt-out after the 2027 season.
The Chosun Ilbo said on November 1 that the possibility Lee could reach free agency is a huge variable and described this as the last good window to trade him. The headline also asks whether he might end up at a small-market club. This newspaper could not open the full text, so the clubs and evidence behind the claim are unconfirmed.
광고 문의 · 300×250The contract background is confirmed by summer coverage. According to OSEN and Daum News, Lee signed a six-year, $113 million deal with the Giants before the 2024 season, running through 2029. He can opt out after the 2027 season and test free agency, at which point two years and $41 million would remain.
Why the opt-out complicated a trade
In July, U.S. outlets pointed out that the opt-out complicates any trade: a buyer would pay a large sum yet might control him for only about a season and a half, and the value is hard to price. MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, however, said many in the industry expect Lee to play out the contract rather than opt out.
On the field, he was hitting about .300 with five homers and an OPS near .760 through 94 games at that point, which was described as the most productive stretch of his career. Separate reports said San Francisco would not move him before the July deadline. All of these figures and reports date from mid-season, and his final season line is not confirmed here.
The attention this winter therefore falls on the choices of both club and player. There is no official word on whether San Francisco will keep the contract as is or whether another club will accept its terms. We will follow up once the club or his agent comments.
