Los Angeles Dodgers supervisor Dave Roberts introduced Tuesday that infielder Hyeseong Kim would open the season in Triple-A Oklahoma Metropolis.
The Dodgers gained’t have him journey to Japan for the Tokyo Sequence, and formally optioned him Tuesday night.
Learn extra: Hyeseong Kim to Begin 2025 Season in Triple-A, Gained’t Journey With Dodgers to Japan
Roberts revealed what went into the choice to have Kim open the season within the minor leagues.
“The final 4 video games, days have been actually good for him,” Roberts mentioned. “He seems to be way more comfy at-bat. The protection has been actually good, and it was good to see him in heart subject. We really feel that it’s most essential for him to remain right here, take at-bats, play in video games to assist him prepare for the season.”
It all the time made sense for Kim to remain in Arizona quite than going to Japan, because the Cubs are beginning two left-handers within the Tokyo Sequence in Shota Imanaga and Justin Steele. Nonetheless, the Dodgers have additionally already made the choice that Kim gained’t be on the group’s home Opening Day roster in two weeks, and can open the season within the minors.
Kim beginning the yr within the minor leagues was all the time going to be an choice. The Dodgers knew once they signed him his offense was a piece in progress, and adjusting to main league velocity wouldn’t be straightforward.
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“Offensively, there’s actually extra velocity,” Roberts mentioned earlier this spring. “Controlling, getting his path proper. Having the ability to deal with balls that transfer late, deal with velocity, use the entire subject. He’s going to place the ball in play. He can run. I simply suppose he wants repetition.”
He added: “I believe that he can actually win ballgames along with his protection alone. Then the query is the event half. What’s good for him? What’s good for the Dodgers?”
The Dodgers have determined that it’s finest for each him and the group to have the 26-year-old begin the yr within the minor leagues. With Kim within the minors, Andy Pages and James Outman will likely be competing for the beginning heart subject spot.
Like we predicted final month, Pages ought to have a leg up in that competitors.
Photograph Credit score: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Photographs
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