The Los Angeles Dodgers have signed infielder Hyeseong Kim to a three-year deal worth $12.5 million, including options for the 2028 and 2029 seasons, potentially extending the contract's value to $22 million. The Dodgers announced the signing on Friday, following widespread speculation about Kim's impending arrival to the team after his posting by the KBO's Kiwoom Heroes on December 5.
To create space on their 40-man roster, the Dodgers designated catcher Diego Cartaya for assignment. This move came after the team, which won its second World Series title in five years, added several players during the offseason to strengthen its roster.
Kim, 25, is coming off his most productive season with the Heroes, where he achieved career highs by batting .326 with 11 home runs and 75 RBIs, also showcasing his speed with 30 stolen bases. His track record speaks volumes; throughout his eight seasons, he maintains a .304 career batting average with 37 home runs and 211 steals. His remarkable ability to drive the ball and thrive on the bases makes him unique, especially within the climate of MLB's growing emphasis on speed and defensive versatility.
Dodgers' general manager Brandon Gomes has hinted at Kim's potential role on the team. Kim is expected to serve as a super utility player, capable of filling various positions—second base, shortstop, and third base—depending on the team's needs. This flexibility is especially beneficial as the Dodgers have established starters such as Mookie Betts at shortstop and Gavin Lux at second base.
During this acquisition period, the Dodgers are paying $2.5 million as part of Kim's release fee due to the KBO regulations, which stipulate 20 percent of any guaranteed salary must be paid to the player's former team. The total investment, combining Kim's salary and this fee, is approximately $15 million. Interestingly, Kim was reportedly offered more lucrative contracts elsewhere, including one rumored five-year deal for $28 million from the Los Angeles Angels, highlighting the competitive nature of this year's free agency.
But what sets Kim apart is not just his hitting prowess—he stands out as one of the KBO's elite defenders, winning KBO Golden Glove honors for multiple consecutive years, including three straight awards at second base. He has also shown his defensive capabilities at shortstop, making him well-rounded and suitable for various roles.
Manager Dave Roberts had previously expressed admiration for Kim during the Dodgers' exhibition match against the Korean national team last March. "Our scouts like the second baseman: just the way his body moves. There's some life to the bat," Roberts commented, underscoring Kim's dynamic playing style and potential fit with the Dodgers.
With this signing, the Dodgers continue their strategy of depth and versatility, paralleling their acquisition of other key players like Teoscar Hernández. While the positional competition could be fierce, Kim’s adaptability will allow him to step up and take advantage of opportunities as they arise. Despite already having quality middle-infielders, adding Kim indicates luxury and preparation for the season.
For 2025, it will be exciting to see how Kim integrates with the Dodgers. His proven track record of performance and versatility will undoubtedly be put to the test as he transitions to Major League Baseball. The infusion of talent like Kim signals the Dodgers' commitment to maintaining their championship caliber and innovatively enhancing their team structure to adapt to both current players and potential future lineup scenarios. With his explosive offensive capabilities and solid defensive skills, Hyeseong Kim stands ready to make his mark as part of the Dodgers’ roster, aiming for another championship run.