Dodgers Complete Outfield Reinforcements, Korean Media Fears Kim Hye-seong Will Become a Long-term Substitute

The Los Angeles Dodgers, pursuing a three-peat in the MLB World Series, caused rumors about roster adjustments following the acquisition of free agent star Kyle Tucker this offseason. Korean outlets sympathize with Korean player Kim Hye-seong, signed last offseason, forecasting that he may be sidelined in the new season.

According to the official website’s projection of the Dodgers’ starting lineup for the new season, beginning with Shohei Ohtani batting first, an ideal zigzag batting order alternating left and right-handed hitters is formed, but left-handed hitter Kim Hye-seong is not included on the list. Korean media outlet OSEN voiced concerns: “Is Kim Hye-seong going to be a long-term substitute again, just like in the playoffs?”

The report mentioned that with Tucker joining, the Dodgers' outfield is now nearly complete, and as a utility player, Kim Hye-seong’s playing time will be limited to infield positions. Once Tommy Edman returns from injury, Kim is likely to serve as a long-term backup.

In fact, Kim Hye-seong was promoted to the major leagues last May, and in 71 games with 170 plate appearances, he posted a .280 batting average, 3 home runs, 17 RBIs, an OPS of .699, and 13 stolen bases. However, during the playoffs, the coaching staff sidelined him, giving him no plate appearances, only brief defensive and pinch-running roles.

Continuing the difficult situation from last year’s playoffs, Kim Hye-seong will need to wait for injuries in the starting lineup to create opportunities this season, making his challenge in the majors potentially tougher than before. However, responding to media predictions about reduced playing time, Kim said during the Korean national team’s training for the Classic: “I’ve never thought about this issue. Even if I move to another team, there’s no guarantee of a starting spot; competition always exists. Since competition is inevitable, I’d rather fight for victory on the team I love and the strongest team.”