Los Angeles Dodgers Manager Dave Roberts has been keeping a keen eye on Hyeseong Kim, and it seems like the hard work is paying off. Last season, Kim struggled with plate discipline, ranking near the bottom of MLB with a 35.1% chase rate.
His kryptonite? Pitches low in the zone, especially those sneaky low and outside or inside offerings.
But this spring, Roberts has noticed a change. Kim's ability to handle secondary pitches has improved, and he's been more selective at the plate.
"I see him handling secondary pitches better, not chasing balls down below the strike zone," Roberts noted. He's also connecting with velocity, a skill he's always had, but now with fewer holes in his swing.
In his two spring appearances so far, Kim has recorded hits in both games. One of those hits came off a 90.5 mph slider from the Mariners, showing his newfound patience by laying off pitches low in the zone. His performance against the Angels was particularly impressive, going 2-for-3 with three RBIs to kick off spring training.
As for Kim's role with the Dodgers in 2026, it's still up in the air. With Tommy Edman sidelined due to ankle surgery, there's a vacancy at second base.
Kim, who played 45 games at second last season, is in the mix to fill that spot. Roberts mentioned him alongside other contenders like Santiago Espinal and Miggy Ro, highlighting the healthy competition for the position.
If Kim continues on this trajectory, he could very well secure a starting role by Opening Day. His progress this spring is promising, and the Dodgers are watching closely to see if he can maintain this upward trend.