Kim Hye-seong: A New Dodger’s Journey to Make the Opening Day Squad
Kim Hye-seong, the South Korean infielder, has become one of the most intriguing new additions to the Los Angeles Dodgers roster. After a standout career in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) with the Kiwoom Heroes, the 24-year-old has set his sights on making the Opening Day squad for the 2025 MLB season. While the Dodgers are known for their stacked roster, Kim’s journey to securing a spot on the team represents both a challenge and an opportunity, given his impressive potential and work ethic.
Background and Early Career
Kim Hye-seong’s baseball career began in South Korea, where he quickly became a household name as one of the brightest stars in the KBO. Born on January 11, 1999, Kim’s talent for the game was evident from a young age. He played for the Kiwoom Heroes, a team known for developing some of the best young talents in the country. Kim’s versatility on the field allowed him to play both shortstop and second base, but it was his exceptional skills as a hitter and fielder that turned heads.
By 2018, Kim had made his KBO debut, quickly establishing himself as a top player. Over the next few years, his performance only improved. Known for his smooth fielding, strong arm, and incredible baseball IQ, Kim excelled as a contact hitter. He consistently batted for average, often maintaining a high on-base percentage, and was a smart baserunner. His ability to make consistent contact with the ball, along with his solid power numbers, made him one of the most coveted players in the KBO.
Kim’s performance peaked in 2023, when he was named to the KBO All-Star team. That year, he hit .310 with 12 home runs and 52 RBIs while also contributing 26 stolen bases. His combination of speed and power made him an even more attractive prospect for MLB teams, and it was clear that he was ready for the challenge of playing in the United States. In the winter of 2024, Kim made the decision to pursue a career in Major League Baseball, and it was only a matter of time before he joined the Dodgers.
Transitioning to the MLB
Kim’s transition from the KBO to the MLB is no small feat. While the KBO and MLB share similarities, the level of competition in the major leagues is far higher. The Dodgers, a perennial powerhouse in MLB, have one of the most loaded rosters in baseball, with a deep lineup and a reputation for developing talent. For a newcomer like Kim, securing a spot on the team isn’t guaranteed. There are multiple obstacles to overcome: learning the nuances of MLB pitching, adjusting to a more rigorous travel schedule, and adapting to the high-pressure atmosphere of playing for one of the most storied franchises in the game.
However, Kim is no stranger to overcoming adversity. His work ethic and determination are widely praised by coaches and teammates in the KBO, and he has brought the same mentality to the Dodgers’ spring training camp. Known for his attention to detail, Kim has committed to refining his game to fit the needs of his new team. Dodgers management, including manager Dave Roberts, has expressed confidence in Kim’s ability to adapt quickly. However, that doesn’t mean the competition for a spot on the Opening Day roster will be easy.
The Competition for the Spot
The Los Angeles Dodgers have a strong infield, with established stars like Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Max Muncy, and up-and-comers like Miguel Vargas and Gavin Lux. This creates a highly competitive environment for Kim as he looks to make the roster. The Dodgers already have players who can play both the infield and outfield, which increases the depth of the roster but also tightens the competition for any available spots.
At second base, there is potential for Kim to make an impact, as the team is looking for someone who can provide solid defense while adding offensive value. However, with a few other players competing for the same role, including the aforementioned Vargas and Lux, Kim will need to prove himself in every aspect of the game.
What sets Kim apart from some of his competitors is his versatility. He is capable of playing multiple infield positions, which gives him a leg up in terms of flexibility. The Dodgers value players who can move around the diamond and fill in where needed, especially with injuries and rest days being a reality during the long MLB season. This could give Kim a chance to see significant playing time, even if he doesn’t start as the team’s everyday second baseman or shortstop.
Moreover, Kim’s offensive game offers another potential advantage. While he may not possess the raw power of some MLB infielders, he consistently demonstrates an ability to make contact and get on base, something that is highly valued in the Dodgers’ analytics-driven approach to building a roster. His speed on the basepaths will also provide a different dynamic, giving the Dodgers an additional element of small-ball baseball that could prove useful in tight games.
Adjusting to Major League Pitching
One of the most significant challenges Kim will face as he transitions to MLB is adjusting to the higher level of pitching. The KBO’s pitching staff tends to be less dominant overall compared to MLB, with the average fastball velocity in the KBO falling below 90 mph. In contrast, Major League pitchers regularly hit 95 mph and above, and the overall pitching talent is deeper and more varied.
Kim’s ability to handle velocity and plate discipline will be crucial in making the roster. Fortunately, he has a strong track record in the KBO of being able to make consistent contact, even against pitchers who throw hard. However, he will need to adjust to the speed and variety of MLB pitching, which may require a period of adaptation. During spring training, Kim will need to demonstrate his ability to hit breaking balls, off-speed pitches, and high-velocity fastballs while showing his resilience against elite pitchers.
The Mental Side of the Game
While physical adjustments are a major part of Kim’s transition to the MLB, the mental aspect of the game will play just as important a role. Moving to a new country, joining a team with a storied history, and playing in front of thousands of passionate fans can be daunting. However, Kim has shown that he is mentally strong, with a calm and composed demeanor both on and off the field. His ability to focus on the task at hand will be key as he navigates the challenges of his rookie season.
Kim’s work ethic and mental toughness will undoubtedly help him as he faces the highs and lows of an MLB season. His approach to failure is grounded in learning and improving, and he has expressed a desire to continue developing his game through constant self-reflection and feedback from coaches. This mindset will be critical as he works to earn a spot on the Opening Day roster.
The Dodgers’ Vision for Kim
The Dodgers are known for their deep roster and their ability to develop young talent. With Kim Hye-seong, they see a player who can contribute both offensively and defensively, with the potential to be a valuable asset in a variety of situations. Whether he makes the Opening Day squad as a starter or as a versatile bench player, the team has high expectations for his future.
The Dodgers’ success over the years has come from their ability to integrate talented players into their system, and Kim could be the next in line to benefit from the franchise’s development pipeline. With a solid support system, including seasoned MLB players and top-tier coaching staff, Kim has the tools to succeed.
