Hyeseong Kim was called up from Triple-A Oklahoma City to fill a temporary gap, but his early impact may make it hard for the Los Angeles Dodgers to send him back.
Originally promoted to replace the injured Tommy Edman — who was placed on the 10-day injured list Saturday with right ankle inflammation — the 26-year-old utility player has quickly impressed in his first taste of the big leagues.
In his first career start Monday against the Miami Marlins, Kim went 2-for-4 with an RBI and a stolen base. He had already flashed his value in his debut series against the Atlanta Braves, showcasing standout defense and energy on the basepaths. On Tuesday, Kim was able to get on base and score a run, but he was picked off attempting to steal a base against the Marlins.
Hyeseong Kim Adds Spark To Los Angeles Dodgers
“He just adds that spark to our ballclub,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts told reporters after the game.
The Dodgers hadn’t planned on keeping Kim around once Edman returned, but that plan is now under review.
“It’s definitely a thought,” Roberts acknowledged. “I think with Hyeseong, with young players, there’s always that dynamic of what in the short term can help the long run, and certainly his skill set plays to that.”
In Triple-A this season, Kim was slashing .252/.328/.470 with five home runs and 19 RBIs. He’s also played all over the field — seeing time at shortstop, second base, and center field — giving him the kind of versatility that often appeals to a contending roster like the Dodgers.
Still, the club must weigh short-term value against long-term development. Kim might benefit more from regular reps in the minors than a limited bench role in the majors — unless a need opens up.
“But then also the longer term, giving him the repetitions, the opportunity, to take as many at-bats (in the minors), to play defense, to get acclimated to American baseball,” Roberts said. “What kind of nets out most positive? And that’s kind of the discussion.”
With Teoscar Hernández’s recent injury creating some lineup uncertainty, Kim may have a temporary runway to prove he belongs in Los Angeles longer than expected.