Jung Hoo Lee, the San Francisco Giants’ highly anticipated center fielder, entered the 2023 season as one of the most intriguing free-agent signings in recent franchise history. Signed to a six-year, $113 million contract, Lee was expected to bring his extraordinary contact skills from the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) to the major leagues. His statistics in the KBO, including his batting averages and ability to make contact, were reminiscent of Hall of Fame hitter Tony Gwynn. However, Lee’s rookie season in the majors was cut short after just 37 games due to a season-ending injury. During a May 12 game against the Cincinnati Reds, Lee dislocated his left shoulder while attempting a leaping catch, leading to labrum damage and surgery. The injury occurred so early in the season that Lee’s absence became an afterthought for many, even as the Giants struggled to a mediocre 80-82 finish.
Despite his limited time on the field, Lee’s potential impact on the team was significant. Giants manager Bob Melvin acknowledged that losing Lee was a “huge impact” on the season, emphasizing how quickly his absence faded from view as the team adapted to his loss. Melvin remained optimistic about Lee’s abilities, noting that he had started to adjust to major-league pitching before the injury. Lee’s contact skills were already on full display, as he swung and missed at just 6.4% of pitches in the strike zone, the third-lowest rate among hitters with at least 150 plate appearances. This ability to make contact is a rare commodity in today’s game, and the Giants believe Lee could become a cornerstone of their lineup if he stays healthy.
Lee’s health is the biggest question mark heading into the 2024 season. Over the past two years, he has dealt with multiple injuries, including a fractured ankle in 2023 that limited his final season with the Kiwoom Heroes in the KBO, and the shoulder dislocation that ended his rookie season in the majors. Despite these setbacks, Lee enters spring training with no restrictions, and the Giants are eager to see what he can do over a full season. Melvin has already hinted at experimenting with Lee in the No. 3 spot in the lineup, a move that would allow the team to leverage his potential for extra-base hits and run production. Lee, who hit 23 home runs in his final KBO season, believes he has the power to contribute in that role and is embracing the opportunity to prove himself.
The Giants’ optimism about Lee is matched by his own determination to make an impact. Lee is known for his work ethic and eagerness to improve, and he has already begun working on adjustments at the plate to increase his production. While his rookie season stats were unremarkable—he hit .262 with only two home runs—Lee’s ability to handle high-velocity pitches and make consistent contact suggests that he could develop into a player like Cleveland Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan, who combines elite contact skills with defensive value and some power. Lee’s defensive abilities are also a Strength, as he brings speed, smart route-running, and a strong arm to center field. If he can stay healthy and continue to refine his approach, the Giants believe Lee could become a key contributor to their lineup.
Off the field, Lee has quickly become a fan favorite in San Francisco, despite his limited time on the field. Hundreds of fans continued to wear his jersey throughout the 2023 season, even after his injury ended his year. The Giants are capitalizing on his popularity by giving away “Jung Hoo Crew” T-shirts to fans sitting in the center-field bleachers during weekend games. Lee is grateful for the support and is determined to reward the fans’ loyalty by playing his best baseball. He has also embraced the pressure that comes with being a highly paid player, stating that he wants to meet the expectations of both his team and the fans. Lee’s humility and focus on teamwork—rather than individual accolades—are traits that have endeared him to the organization and its supporters.
As the Giants look to compete in the National League in 2024, much of their hope is pinned on Lee’s return to health and his ability to fulfill his potential. While there are still questions about whether he can stay on the field and develop into a consistent run producer, the signs are encouraging. Lee’s contact skills are elite, and his willingness to learn and adapt suggests that he could become a key player in the Giants’ lineup for years to come. For now, he is focused on staying prepared and proving that he is more than just a promising signing—he is a player capable of making a real difference at the major-league level.
