Hyeseong Kim: A Rising Star from South Korea
Dodgers rookie Hyeseong Kim has made waves during spring training, showcasing his exceptional defensive skills and adaptability. Kim, a 26-year-old utility player from South Korea, boasts a .304 batting average over six-plus seasons in the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO). Known for his defensive prowess, Kim has already won four Gold Glove Awards in Korea, a testament to his fielding capabilities.
A Test of Resilience and Pressure
During spring training, the Dodgers have a unique drill where players must field a ball cleanly and make an accurate throw to first base. If anyone falters, the entire team must start over. In a playful yet challenging environment, Kim, the newest addition to the infield, is often placed last in this drill. Other infielders chant "Let’s go Dodgers!" as the ball is hit, attempting to rattle him. Despite the pressure, Kim has consistently excelled, missing not a single opportunity so far. Shortstop Mookie Betts even encouraged fans to join in on the chant, adding to the intensity.
Questions and Anticipation
While Roki Sasaki, a 23-year-old right-hander jumping from Japan to the major leagues, has garnered significant attention, Kim is a close second in terms of curiosity and intrigue. The primary questions surrounding Kim revolve around his ability to handle major league pitching, whether he can hit for more power, and his versatility on the field. Kim is a left-handed hitter known for his contact and speed, with a lean build of 5 feet 10 inches and 176 pounds. He has a track record of 37 home runs and 150 doubles in 953 games in Korea. His ability to adapt to the higher velocity and nastier breaking balls in the U.S. will be crucial.
Defensive Versatility and Potential
Despite his expertise at second base, where he has earned his Gold Gloves, the Dodgers are keen to test Kim’s versatility. Manager Dave Roberts plans to give Kim opportunities to play shortstop, center field, corner outfield spots, and third base. While Kim has never played center field in Korea, Roberts sees potential in having another left-handed option with the ability to play multiple positions. Veteran shortstop Miguel Rojas is particularly impressed by Kim’s defensive skills, predicting that Kim could be a Gold Glove winner at second base.
Adjusting to Major League Pitching
Kim’s success will ultimately hinge on his ability to adapt to major league pitching, where the average fastball velocity is around 94 mph, significantly higher than the 90 mph average in Korea. Kim is working closely with hitting coaches Robert Van Scoyoc and Aaron Bates, making several mechanical adjustments to his swing. Utility man Tommy Edman, who played with Kim on South Korea’s 2023 World Baseball Classic team, believes Kim’s contact-oriented approach will aid his transition. Edman notes that Kim looks stronger and more physical now than he did two years ago, suggesting a positive trajectory.
A Gambit with Potential
The Dodgers took a calculated risk by signing Kim to a three-year, $12.5 million deal with options for 2028 and 2029, which could increase the total value to $22 million. While only a few Korean position players, such as outfielder Shin-Soo Choo and infielder Ha-Seong Kim, have thrived in the big leagues, the Dodgers believe in Kim’s potential. General Manager Brandon Gomes emphasizes Kim’s strong work ethic, coachability, and athletic ability, all of which contribute to the team’s confidence in his future success. Kim’s early performance, including a single and a walk in his third exhibition game, is encouraging, but the true test lies ahead.
A New Beginning for Hyeseong Kim
Kim’s transition to the Dodgers has been smooth, thanks to the team’s welcoming environment. He is eager to prove himself and deliver results. "Everyone has been welcoming—the transition period hasn’t been a problem because everyone has been great to me so far," Kim said through an interpreter. "But now it’s time to show a bit more results and show that I’m ready to play in Dodger Stadium." As the season progresses, the Dodgers and their fans will be watching closely to see how Kim adapts and thrives in his new home.
