There is nothing to gain by discussing the competitor's trade, Kim Hye-sung's only infield left-handed option
Jan 06, 2025
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In an interview with the Los Angeles Times on the 6th (Korea time), Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes said, "(Through Kim Hye-sung) I think he has reinforced a pretty capable player." And you just have to look at how he and our team play. It's good to have strong power in many areas. That's what we're doing right now (including Kim Hyesung)The way you look at infield depth..."
In other words, it is not the time to discuss trade. Of course, no one knows what will happen this season. Kim Hye-sung may play better than expected in attack and take the lead, or he may eventually fall to the minor leagues due to difficulties in adapting. General manager Gomes stressed that it is inappropriate to look at the possibility of a trade at a time when all scenarios should be considered.
Kim Hye-sung is definitely a backup infielder. Goms said "Hye-sung Kim acts as a utility because shortstop Mookie Betts and second baseman Lux are the basic formations."
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In the end, Kim Hye-sung competes with Taylor and Rojas for backup time. Taylor may be valuable in that he can also play outfield, but he had the worst season of his life with a batting average of 0.202 with four home runs and an OPS of 0.598 in 87 games last year. The four-year $60 million contract signed in November 2021 ends this year, and if there is no sign of improvement, the Dodgers are likely to give up his $12 million option in 2026.
His trade will not be available until the offseason this summer or the end of this year. In this regard, CBS Sports said, "'Kim Hye-sung is considered an infield bench member along with Taylor and Rojas.'" Even if the Dodgers intend to release Taylor or Rojas, there is nothing to gain by publicly mentioning it now. Rather, he dismissed the possibility of a trade, saying, 'There is plenty of time left to review multiple scenarios before deciding on the best attack plan.
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He can be an appropriate candidate to play against the opponent's right-handed pitcher in the bullpen game later in the game. In other words, Kim Hye-sung has conditions to expand his use not only in defense but also in offense. ESPN expressed expectations that `If Kim Ha-sung adapts well in the long run, he can develop into a high-end utility level.'
There is a noticeable part of the contract between Kim Hye-sung and the Dodgers, which is the bonus clause. Kim Hye-sung has decided to receive a $500,000 bonus for completing 500 at-bats in 2028 and 2029, respectively. It is nothing short of motivation to stay solid for the first three seasons so that the options can be implemented, and to become a main player from 2028. As a left-handed hitter, he also needs to show his batting ability.
This article was translated by Naver AI translator.
