Lee Jung-hoo: SF Giants’ Plan for Star Outfielder

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The picture shows Li Zhenghou on defense in the 2025 season.

The picture shows Harrison Vader, who played for Philadelphia in October this year, flying out to catch a hit.

San Francisco Giants outfielder Lee Jung-hoo will be shifting from center field to right field for the 2026 season. This change comes as the Giants bolster their outfield defense with the addition of Gold Glove outfielder Harrison Bader, and signals a clear vote of confidence in Lee Jung-hoo’s versatility.

A Defensive Overhaul for the Giants

The Giants are prioritizing improved outfield defense after struggling in the 2025 season.

On January 31st, San Francisco Giants General Manager Buster Pozzi revealed conversations with Lee Jung-hoo regarding the position change during a video interview with reporters in San Francisco. Pozzi emphasized Lee Jung-hoo’s positive attitude and willingness to adapt to the team’s needs.

According to team officials, Lee Jung-hoo readily accepted the move after discussions with team leader Jack Minasian and coach Tony Vitello. The team believes this adjustment will ultimately benefit both Lee Jung-hoo’s performance and the overall strength of the Giants’ defense.

The Giants officially announced the signing of Bader on January 31st. The two-year contract is valued at $20.5 million (approximately 29.7 billion won), according to MLB.com and other sources. This acquisition is a key step in addressing what was, by many accounts, the weakest link in the Giants’ roster last season.

Addressing a Weakness: 2025 Defensive Struggles

San Francisco’s outfield defense ranked last in Major League Baseball during the 2025 season, drawing significant criticism. Lee Jung-hoo and left fielder Elliott Ramos were identified as key contributors to the defensive shortcomings. Data from The Athletics showed a combined Outs Above Average (OAA) of -14 for the pair, with Lee Jung-hoo posting an OAA of -5 and a Defensive Run Saved (DRS) of -18.

The decision to move Lee Jung-hoo to right field aims to alleviate the defensive burden. Pozzi expressed confidence in Lee Jung-hoo’s potential, stating, “Lee Jung-hoo has the potential to become the top right-hander in Major League Baseball.” Minasian added that data analysis indicated Lee Jung-hoo possesses advantages over other right fielders in the league, predicting strong performance in the new role.

Analysts suggest the move could also unlock even more offensive potential for Lee Jung-hoo. Among right fielders with at least 400 at-bats in the 2025 season, Lee Jung-hoo ranked first in fewest strikeouts, fifth in batting average, and tied for sixth in runs scored. Reducing the defensive demands allows him to focus on his strengths at the plate and on the basepaths.

If Bader provides solid defense in center field and Lee Jung-hoo excels in right, the Giants’ outfield is projected to become a significant strength in both offense and defense.

Lee Jung-hoo has embraced the challenge, and fans are eager to see if he can become a key player at Oracle Park in the 2026 season.

On the 7th, President Buster Pozi greeted Korean reporters.

The San Francisco Giants officially announced the acquisition of Wade.

What does this position change mean for Lee Jung-hoo? The move to right field is intended to maximize his offensive output by reducing the defensive range he needs to cover, allowing him to focus on his hitting and base-running abilities.