The Dodgers made a significant roster decision on Sunday, opting to send Hyeseong Kim to Triple-A Oklahoma City. This move settles the last remaining position-player battle in their camp, paving the way for Alex Freeland to secure a spot on the opening day roster.
Kim and the versatile switch-hitter Freeland were in competition for the left-handed role in a second base platoon, as Tommy Edman continues his recovery from right ankle surgery undergone in November.
Kim showcased impressive form this spring, racking up 11 hits in 27 at-bats, including a home run, and boasting a .407/.448/.519 slash line. He also led the team with five stolen bases, going uncaught. In the World Baseball Classic, Kim managed a home run in 12 at-bats for Korea.
Freeland, on the other hand, had a tougher time at the plate this spring. Despite homering on Saturday, he recorded just five hits in 43 at-bats, resulting in a .116/.286/.233 line.
However, his discipline at the plate was evident, as he led the team with 11 walks. According to Fabian Ardaya from The Athletic, Freeland was informed on Sunday that he made the opening day roster.
This decision clearly wasn't driven by traditional spring training stats alone. Concerns lingered about Kim's ability to handle high-velocity pitching at the major league level, despite his impressive numbers.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts discussed the roster battle on Friday at Camelback Ranch, as reported by Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register. Roberts acknowledged the complexity of the decision, highlighting the merits of both players.
He noted that while Freeland's numbers might not jump off the page, his at-bats have been solid, and emphasized that spring training stats don't tell the whole story. The decision involved deeper conversations about the team's needs and future projections.