Dodgers’ Hyeseong Kim Should Get More Playing Time Following Latest Update

In a season full of highlights, breakout performances, and lineup shuffles, perhaps no player has made a louder case for more playing time with quieter fanfare than Hyeseong Kim. The Korean infielder, who signed with the Dodgers amid moderate expectations this past winter, has been a revelation—both statistically and emotionally—for a team with legitimate World Series ambitions. And now, following a significant update to the Dodgers’ lineup strategy, it appears his role is about to expand.

According to manager Dave Roberts, Kim will now see increased reps at second base, with Tommy Edman shifting to center field in order to address multiple positional needs. While Edman has been a fixture in the infield since his return from injury, the Dodgers’ decision to utilize his elite versatility in the outfield opens the door for Kim to step into a more regular starting role. It’s a move fans and analysts alike have called for over the past several weeks—and now, it’s becoming a reality.

The timing couldn’t be better.

Through the first 81 at-bats of his MLB career, Kim is slashing a scorching .383/.425/.543, adding 2 home runs, 12 RBIs, and 7 stolen bases. His blend of contact, poise, and aggressive base running has injected the Dodgers’ lineup with a different energy. While the heavy hitters like Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman draw the national spotlight, Kim has been the glue between big innings and the spark that lights them.

His contact rate ranks among the best in the National League, and his ability to adjust to big-league velocity has been seamless. Despite the limited sample size, opposing pitchers have quickly learned that Kim isn’t simply a rookie adjusting to the game—he’s already influencing it.

“Hyeseong has earned more opportunities,” Roberts told reporters. “He’s done everything we’ve asked. He puts together great at-bats, he runs the bases well, and he’s been solid defensively. We’re going to get him in the lineup more often.”

That’s a shift in tone from earlier in the season, when Kim was utilized sparingly—often as a late-game replacement or spot starter. The original plan was to ease him in behind veterans like Edman, Gavin Lux, and Chris Taylor, but his play forced the Dodgers’ hand. It’s no longer about development. It’s about performance.

And Kim has performed.

His Baseball Savant profile reflects elite bat-to-ball skills and above-average sprint speed, making him a top-of-the-lineup threat whenever he’s in the game. Moreover, he’s quickly become a fan favorite—his energetic playstyle, humility, and infectious smile reminiscent of the best qualities international stars often bring to MLB. The crowd at Chavez Ravine already buzzes differently when he steps into the batter’s box.

It’s no wonder Roberts and the front office want to see more of him.

The decision to move Edman to center field is partly strategic and partly necessity. With injuries to outfielders and inconsistent production from the corner spots, Roberts is leaning on Edman’s athleticism to give the Dodgers more defensive stability up the middle. That opens second base for Kim—a position he played regularly during his KBO career with the Kiwoom Heroes.

“Hyeseong’s natural instincts and footwork play well at second,” said Dodgers bench coach Danny Lehmann. “He’s still getting used to the speed of the game, but you can tell he’s a professional. He’s not afraid of the moment.”

That mental makeup is critical. Transitioning from the KBO to MLB isn’t always seamless, but Kim has made it appear effortless. His plate discipline stands out, with a walk rate hovering near 9% and a strikeout rate well below league average. He’s not just swinging for contact—he’s working counts, fouling off tough pitches, and executing situational hitting far beyond his experience level.

“He’s mature beyond his years,” said Dodgers hitting coach Aaron Bates. “He understands his approach and doesn’t try to do too much. That’s rare for any player, let alone a rookie adjusting to a new league and culture.”

Perhaps the most remarkable part of Kim’s journey is how quickly he has earned the trust of his teammates. Veterans like Ohtani and Freeman have praised Kim’s demeanor and preparedness. His work ethic in practice has impressed coaches, and his humility—often deflecting praise or credit—has made him instantly likable in the clubhouse.

“I just want to help the team,” Kim said modestly through his interpreter. “I prepare every day and stay ready. Whether I play or not, I support my teammates. But I’m happy to contribute when I get the chance.”

That opportunity is expanding fast. Roberts said Kim is now expected to start three to four games per week, up from one or two in early June. And that number could rise if his production continues at this rate. With Edman likely rotating between center field and the infield based on matchups, the Dodgers have built-in flexibility that could allow Kim to lock down second base for the foreseeable future.

This is no longer a luxury move. It’s a necessity. The Dodgers have spent years constructing one of the deepest rosters in baseball, and the emergence of Hyeseong Kim is proof of that philosophy bearing fruit once again. He’s not replacing anyone—he’s enhancing everyone.

From a tactical perspective, Kim offers a lot to like. He extends innings, keeps the line moving, and applies pressure on opposing pitchers with his legs. He may not be the prototypical slugger fans associate with the Dodgers, but he fits into their model of contact, speed, and situational awareness.

And in a league increasingly driven by strikeouts and three-true-outcome players, Kim’s style feels refreshingly throwback.

“He reminds me of guys who just know how to play the game,” said FOX Sports analyst Eric Karros. “He’s not swinging for launch angle. He’s just putting the ball in play and making things happen. That has real value—especially in the postseason.”

Whether Kim continues to play at this elite level or cools off a bit is still to be seen. But one thing is clear: he’s earned his shot. And the Dodgers are wise to give it to him.

There’s something poetic about this latest update. A player who came to L.A. with little fanfare is now forcing one of the most star-studded rosters in baseball to make room. That doesn’t happen often—and it doesn’t happen unless you’re truly special.

With the season nearing the All-Star break and the playoff picture starting to take shape, don’t be surprised if Hyeseong Kim becomes a fixture in every big Dodgers series from this point forward. He’s not just part of the team. He’s becoming a key to its identity.

And finally—if he keeps this up—he might just go from unsung hero to household name.