Dodgers’ Hyeseong Kim Could Be Left Off Opening Day Roster, Sparking New Competition
When the Los Angeles Dodgers signed Hyeseong Kim out of Korea this winter, they were expecting to plug him in at second base immediately.
However, that might not be the case anymore.
Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times revealed Tuesday morning that Kim could start the season in the minor leagues as he continues to make adjustments at the plate.
General manager Brandon Gomes was non-committal about where Kim would begin his North American career because there is still time for him to figure out the hitting side of things.
“Defensively, I think it’ll be very seamless,” manager Dave Roberts said of his transition. “Offensively, there’s certainly more velocity. Controlling, getting his path right. Being able to handle balls that move late, handle velocity, use the whole field. He’s going to put the ball in play. He can run.
“I just think he needs repetition. So we’re going to try to get him out there as much as we can (in Cactus League games) to calibrate on big-league stuff. But he’s already shown me that he’s a quick study, and he’s got aptitude.”
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The Dodgers knew what kind of player they were getting when he signed. He won the equivalent to a Gold Glove in the KBO but lacked offense.
“I think that he can certainly win ballgames with his defense alone,” Roberts said. “Then the question is the development part. What’s good for him? What’s good for the Dodgers? And that, we don’t have to answer right now.”
At this point, there are no guarantees when it comes to a roster spot. Kim is battling with Chris Taylor, Andy Pages, James Outman, and Eddie Rosario for the final two spots where versatility might be the differentiating factor.
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Taylor can play multiple positions that gives him a slight advantage, and if Kim can get some reps in the outfield, that will only help his case as the calendar gets closer to Opening Day.
Kim is currently 1-for-9 in spring training with two walks and four strikeouts, including his 0-for-3 performance on Tuesday.
Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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