Dodgers' Hyeseong Kim Under Threat From Emerging Veteran

"When camp started, it seemed Kim was the favorite to take the second-base job, partly because of his ability to play center field when Andy Pages needs a day off. It's growing increasingly likely Roberts will platoon second base, with Miguel Rojas getting starts against lefties. That doesn't change Kim's status. Kim had a strong spring campaign before departing for the World Baseball Classic, and Roberts was complimentary of Kim's performance while also hinting he'd like to see how Kim would fare with everyday playing time."

"Barring an injury or a shocking development, Kim will be on the Opening Day roster, but his usage might change with the emergence of Espinal. As a lefty, Kim can platoon for Andy Pages and Miguel Rojas, two right-handed hitters. If he can keep hitting or, at the very least, take advantage of his match-ups, Kim will feature in the Dodgers plan, especially since he has a good glove and elite speed."

Hyeoseong Kim was positioned to gain significant playing time at second base for the Los Angeles Dodgers following Tommy Edman's offseason ankle surgery. Kim started spring training strongly, going six for 13 with a home run before departing for the World Baseball Classic. However, the emergence of minor league signee Santiago Espinal has complicated Kim's path to regular playing time. Manager Dave Roberts appears likely to platoon second base, with Miguel Rojas starting against left-handed pitchers. Kim's versatility as a left-handed hitter who can play center field and his defensive skills and elite speed remain valuable assets. Despite the added competition, Kim is expected to make the Opening Day roster, though his usage may be affected by Espinal's strong performance.

Read at Dodgers Nation