The Los Angeles Dodgers celebrated a thrilling 7-4 victory over the Miami Marlins on May 6, 2025, as the team showcased both talent and camaraderie on the field. This game was particularly special for rookie infielder Kim Heseong, who made his first Major League Baseball (MLB) start and left an unforgettable mark.
In a moment that resonated deeply with fans, Mookie Betts, the Dodgers’ star player, shared a heartfelt embrace with Kim after the final out was recorded. As pitcher Garvin Yeats struck out the last batter with a fly ball to right field, Betts and Kim exchanged a 'hot hug', a display of joy that fans took to social media to celebrate. Comments flooded in, with many expressing their admiration for Betts, calling him "the greatest player of all time" and urging that the two should "never be separated."
Kim Heseong, who joined the Dodgers this season through a posting system for three years and $12.5 million (approximately 1.82 billion yen), had a standout performance. Batting ninth as the second baseman, he recorded his first MLB hit with a left-field single in the fifth inning and promptly stole second base, setting the stage for Shohei Ohtani’s ninth home run of the season. This was a significant moment not only for Kim but also for the Dodgers, as it highlighted the rookie's potential to contribute to the team.
Prior to this game, Kim had started his season in the minor leagues but was called up on May 3, 2025, due to outfielder Tommy Edman being placed on the injured list. His major league debut came during the same day’s game against the Braves, where he made an appearance in the ninth inning. The transition from minor to major leagues can be daunting, but Kim has shown resilience and skill, quickly earning the respect of his teammates and fans alike.
Meanwhile, Shohei Ohtani, who was batting first as the designated hitter, continued to impress with his performance. Having played in 33 games this season, Ohtani boasts a .292 batting average, with nine home runs, 13 RBIs, and ten stolen bases. His 37 runs scored are the highest in both leagues, further solidifying his status as a premier player. In the previous game against the Marlins, Ohtani had recorded a two-run homer among his four at-bats, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure. The Dodgers’ lineup for this game reflected strategic adjustments, with Betts resting to manage his workload, while Miguel Vargas stepped in as the right fielder.
The atmosphere at LoanDepot Park in Miami was electric, a venue that holds special memories for Ohtani. Last September, he made history there by recording six hits, including three consecutive home runs, and became the first player to achieve a '50-50' season. The stadium has also been a memorable place for the Japanese national team, which won the World Baseball Classic (WBC) there in March 2023, further emphasizing its significance in the baseball world.
As the game progressed, the Dodgers displayed their offensive prowess, with contributions from various players. Following Ohtani in the batting order was Vargas, who took the second spot, and Freeman, who occupied the third. Smith, the catcher, and Muncy, at third base, rounded out a lineup that aimed to capitalize on every opportunity. The team’s depth was evident, especially with James Outman making his major league debut as the center fielder, filling in for the injured Teoscar Hernandez.
Outman had been promoted from Triple-A, where he had a batting average of .254, with eight home runs and 27 RBIs over 32 games. His inclusion in the lineup added another layer of excitement for fans eager to see how the young talent would perform at the major league level.
In the end, the Dodgers’ victory over the Marlins not only showcased their skill and determination but also highlighted the importance of team spirit and support among players. Betts' warm gesture towards Kim exemplified the bond forming within the team, a crucial element as they navigate through the season. Fans left the stadium buzzing, eager for the next game and hopeful for what the season has in store for the Dodgers.
As the Dodgers continue their journey, they will look to build on this momentum and further integrate their new players into the lineup. With Ohtani leading the charge and Kim showing promise, the future looks bright for Los Angeles as they aim for a successful season.
