SAN DIEGO — San Diego Padres infielder Sung Mun Song is dealing with an early hurdle ahead of his first Major League Spring Training, as the club anticipates a recovery window of approximately four weeks following an oblique injury. The injury reportedly occurred during a recent batting practice session, putting Song’s offseason ramp-up temporarily on hold.
The projected timetable places Song’s return close to the start of San Diego’s spring camp, meaning he could still be ready to participate without missing meaningful game action.
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However, oblique injuries are often unpredictable, and teams tend to proceed cautiously given the risk of aggravation. With Song sidelined during a key portion of his offseason work, the Padres may take a conservative approach if he needs additional time to build up strength and timing, potentially delaying his readiness for Opening Day.
Beyond the regular season, Song’s health also intersects with questions surrounding the World Baseball Classic, scheduled for March. It remains unclear whether Song intended to suit up for South Korea or prioritize his transition to Major League Baseball. Notably, he did not participate in South Korea’s preliminary camp that opened earlier this month, suggesting he may not have been in the national team’s immediate plans regardless of injury status.
Song’s rise to MLB attention came quickly over the past two seasons in the KBO League. After modest production earlier in his career, he broke out in 2024 with the Kiwoom Heroes, posting a .340/.409/.518 slash line with 19 home runs across more than 600 plate appearances. He followed that up with an even stronger 2025 campaign, batting .315/.387/.530 while launching 26 homers. That sustained success prompted Kiwoom to post Song, opening the door for his move stateside.
The Padres signed Song in December to a four-year deal that includes $15 million in guaranteed money, along with a player opt-out before the 2029 season and a club option for 2030. At 29 years old, Song enters a San Diego infield already anchored by Manny Machado at third base, but his defensive versatility should work in his favor.
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In addition to third, Song has experience at first and second base, and the Padres have even explored the possibility of using him in the outfield.
How Song adapts to Major League pitching will be one of the more intriguing storylines of San Diego’s season. For now, the focus remains on his recovery, as the Padres look to ensure his transition to MLB begins on a stable footing despite this early setback.