Hyeseong Kim: A Promising Prospect with a Steep Learning Curve
Hyeseong Kim, the Dodgers’ new utility man, is currently practicing during spring training in Phoenix, where he is engaging in a critical period of adjustment. The 26-year-old South Korean infielder, known for his defensive prowess and speed, is facing a significant challenge as he adapts to major-league competition. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts recently spoke about Kim’s progress, acknowledging that there are still "question marks" with his bat. Roberts noted that Kim is still adjusting and that the team’s coaching staff is guiding him through a series of swing changes.
The Journey to Major League Baseball
When the Dodgers signed Kim to a three-year, $12.5-million contract in early January, it was a clear indication of their belief in his potential. Despite not being one of the team’s biggest financial commitments during their nearly half-billion-dollar offseason spending spree, the signing represented a serious long-term investment. The Dodgers traded starting second baseman Gavin Lux shortly after, seemingly to clear the way for Kim at second base. However, questions about Kim’s bat persisted. While he was a .304 career hitter in the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO), he had only 37 home runs in 953 games. Scouts appreciated his contact ability, defensive versatility, and lightning-quick speed (211 career steals in the KBO), but his lack of power was a significant concern.
Adjusting to a New Level of Competition
The Dodgers have high hopes for Kim, believing that with the right swing changes, he can provide more power at the plate. General manager Brandon Gomes highlighted Kim’s bat-to-ball skills as a strong foundation, emphasizing the potential to improve his ability to hit the ball harder and handle off-speed pitches. However, three weeks into spring training, these improvements are still a work in progress. During live batting practice against the Dodgers’ talented pitching staff, Kim has often looked overmatched, struggling to adjust to the increased velocity and wicked breaking pitches. His early results in Cactus League games are bleak: one infield single in nine at-bats, two walks, four strikeouts, and only one ball hit harder than 95 mph.
Positive Feedback and Ongoing Development
Despite the initial struggles, Kim has received positive feedback from his teammates and coaches. Miguel Rojas, his teammate, described him as a Gold Glove-caliber defender at second base, praising his natural athleticism and clean fundamentals. Coaches have also noted Kim’s receptiveness to working at other positions, including shortstop and center field. The Dodgers have been impressed by Kim’s work ethic and buy-in at the plate, where he has embraced significant adjustments to his bat path and swing mechanics. Hitting coach Aaron Bates echoed this sentiment, stating that Kim has the ingredients to be great.
The Competition for Roster Spots
The Dodgers have several players vying for the final roster spots, and Kim’s competition is intense. Currently, there appear to be four players battling for the last two position player slots: Kim, Chris Taylor, Andy Pages, and James Outman. Despite Taylor’s poor 2024 season and sluggish start in spring training, his track record with the Dodgers and the $17 million still owed on his contract make him a long shot to be cut. Andy Pages, on the other hand, is trying to build on his successful rookie season, where he hit .248 with 13 home runs, 23 doubles, and 46 RBIs. A return to the minors might slow his development.
A Decision That Could Shape Kim’s Future
The Dodgers’ decision on Kim’s opening day roster status remains in flux. While Kim’s defensive skills and work ethic are highly regarded, his offensive struggles may lead the team to start him in the minors. This lower-stakes environment could provide him with the necessary repetitions to refine his swing and adapt to major-league competition. General manager Brandon Gomes has left open the possibility of starting Kim in the minors, emphasizing the importance of seeing how the roster plays out and how Kim looks over the next few weeks. Ultimately, the team will need to trim their roster to 26 players by the time they open the season in late March. The Dodgers will let the spring play out and assess Kim’s progress to make the best decision for his long-term development and the team’s success.
