'Surprise Call-Up' Song Sung-moon Misses First Game of Mexico Series → Will He Play on the 27th?

*This content was translated by AI.

San Diego Padres infielder Song Sung-moon (29) was suddenly called up ahead of the Mexico Series, which will be held in a neutral location other than the United States, but his Major League Baseball (MLB) debut opportunity was unfortunately postponed.

The San Diego organization announced on the 26th (Korean time) that it had suddenly called up Song Sung-moon, who was playing for the Triple-A El Paso Chihuahuas, ahead of the '2026 MLB World Tour Mexico City Series' against the Arizona Diamondbacks held in Mexico City, Mexico.

This call-up was made possible under a special MLB rule that allows teams to expand their rosters from 26 to 27 players for games held outside the United States and Canada. Song Sung-moon joined as the team's '27th player,' fulfilling his dream of entering the big leagues.

After the end of last season, Song Sung-moon signed a four-year contract with the San Diego Padres, drawing high expectations. However, his entry into the opening day roster was derailed by a side injury sustained before spring training. Starting the season on the injured list (IL), he recently recorded a .293 batting average (75 at-bats, 22 hits), a .369 on-base percentage, and a .320 slugging percentage in 20 Triple-A games, earning praise for successfully regaining his game readiness.

However, Song Sung-moon's participation in the first game of the series held on this day did not materialize. San Diego, trailing 1-4 early in the game, staged a dramatic comeback in the seventh inning with four runs, securing a thrilling 6-4 comeback victory. Song, who was waiting on the bench, did not receive an opportunity to enter the game.

Song Sung-moon will once again attempt to conquer the Major League debut stage in the second game of the series against Arizona, also held at the same venue on the 27th. Given the expanded roster with additional available personnel, it appears highly likely he will see action as a pinch hitter or defensive replacement depending on the game situation.

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*This content was translated by AI.