Song Sung-wen makes MLB debut as pinch runner, excitement evident despite no batting opportunity

San Diego Padres' Korean infielder Song Sung-wen played his first MLB game today. In the second game of the Padres' overseas series against the Arizona Diamondbacks, he was brought in as a pinch runner in the top of the eighth inning but did not get a chance to bat. The Padres ultimately lost 7-12. Despite limited action in his debut, Song expressed excitement after the game about stepping onto a Major League field for the first time.

This series between the Padres and Diamondbacks was held at Alfredo Harp Helú Stadium in Mexico City. According to MLB rules, overseas games allow teams to carry an extra player. The Padres decided to bring infielder Song Sung-wen up to the major leagues as their 27th man. In the top of the eighth inning today, Song substituted for Luis Campusano as a pinch runner, marking his MLB debut. However, in the bottom half of the inning, he was replaced by catcher Freddy Fermin, so he did not get a batting opportunity. The Diamondbacks scored four runs in the bottom of the eighth and won the game 12-7.

After the game, despite limited chances in his debut, Song still conveyed his excitement: "I'm really thrilled to be here; it feels like a dream to me. Even though the Mexico series might only last two days, I will do everything I can to contribute to the team. I was performing well in AAA, and I hope to bring that form here."

Padres manager Craig Stammen also emphasized during an interview: "He fits our roster very well. We recognized this when we signed him during the offseason. Unfortunately, he suffered an oblique strain during spring training, which delayed his progress. We're glad he could come to Mexico City. We believe he can handle infield duties defensively and, on offense, fill the left-handed pinch hitter role we previously lacked."

Infielder Song Sung-wen, who played for the KBO's Kiwoom Heroes last season, signed a four-year, $15 million contract with the Padres via the posting system in December 2025. However, he suffered an injury during offseason training in January, was placed on the injured list at the start of the season, and has been rehabilitating in AAA. He played 20 games in AAA, batting .293 with no home runs but contributing 12 RBIs. About a month into the season, he finally made his MLB debut today.

Tomorrow, the Padres will return to their home Petco Park to begin a three-game series against the Cubs. Whether Song Sung-wen will remain in the major leagues or be sent back to AAA has not yet been decided.