Dodgers Infielder Hyeseong Kim Returns from Triple-A and Contributes to Team

Dodgers infielder Hyeseong Kim was sent to triple-A Oklahoma City at the beginning of the season for the second consecutive year since joining the team. The decision followed discussions with coaches and front office staff about his swing adjustments.

Kim had aimed to make the opening day roster after offseason improvements but reverted to previous habits during the World Baseball Classic with Team South Korea.

The team selected prospect Alex Freeland for a part-time second base role instead. 5 million from South Korea, expressed motivation rather than disappointment about the demotion. He apologized to Korean baseball fans in an interview after arriving in Oklahoma City.

Progress in Triple-A and Recall

In triple-A, Kim went 9-for-26 and reduced his strikeout rate.

He was recalled to the majors after Mookie Betts suffered an oblique strain. Since returning, Kim has started 5-for-18 with a home run, two extra-base hits, four walks, and notable defensive plays at shortstop. He has eight strikeouts in eight games and plays less against left-handed pitching.

Kim was involved in a notable ABS challenge incident this year.

Recent Performance and Outlook Manager Dave

Roberts stated that Kim consistently contributes to wins when he plays.

On Wednesday, Kim hit a two-run home run off Clay Holmes, helping complete a sweep against the New York Mets. Roberts noted improvements in Kim's swing mechanics compared to after the World Baseball Classic. Kim described his progress as gradual and expressed a desire to remain at the major league level.

The 27-year-old, measuring 5-foot-10 and 175 pounds, continues to work on his hitting mechanics.