Jung Hoo Lee adjusts to right field after Giants sign Bader

The Korean star is working to find his rhythm in the new position this spring.

Mar. 2, 2026 at 1:55am by Ben Kaplan

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Jung Hoo Lee is embracing his new role as the regular right fielder for the San Francisco Giants after the team signed Harrison Bader to play center field. Lee, who previously played center, is working to adapt to the new position and is spending time training at the team's minor league complex to get familiar with the unique dimensions of Oracle Park's right field.

Why it matters

The Giants are counting on Lee to handle the tricky bounces and plays in right field as they look to build on their success from last season. Lee's ability to transition smoothly to the new position will be key to the team's outfield defense and overall performance.

The details

Lee has been working closely with new Giants manager Tony Vitello and teammate Harrison Bader to get comfortable in right field. He has spent time training at the team's minor league complex to get familiar with the unique dimensions of Oracle Park's right field. Lee is focused on improving his rhythm and timing in the new position, even as he prepares to play center field for Korea in the upcoming World Baseball Classic.

  • Lee signed a $113 million, six-year contract with the Giants in December 2023.
  • Lee missed most of his rookie season after dislocating his left shoulder when he crashed into an outfield wall and required season-ending surgery.
  • Last season, Lee batted .266 with eight home runs and 55 RBIs with 10 stolen bases over 150 games — 144 of those being starts in center field.

The players

Jung Hoo Lee

A 27-year-old Korean star who is transitioning from center field to right field for the San Francisco Giants this season.

Harrison Bader

An outfielder who the Giants signed to a $20.5 million, two-year contract to play center field.

Tony Vitello

The new manager of the San Francisco Giants who is working closely with Lee on his transition to right field.

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What they’re saying

“There's a lot of communication going on throughout these practices and also these drills that happen in the outfield. As more time goes by, I would love to spend more time with Bader and communicate.”

— Jung Hoo Lee

“It's hard not to bond with Jungy, he's as easy to get along with as anybody. And yet he takes his craft very seriously.”

— Tony Vitello, San Francisco Giants Manager

What’s next

Lee is still set to play center field for Korea in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, which will give him additional opportunities to prepare for the transition to right field with the Giants.

The takeaway

Lee's willingness to embrace the position change and his diligent work ethic demonstrate his commitment to the team's success. The Giants are confident that Lee will adapt well to right field and continue to be a valuable contributor to their outfield.