Hyeseong Kim Joins the Los Angeles Dodgers with Exciting New Contract

In a significant move for both Hyeseong Kim and the Los Angeles Dodgers, the talented Korean utility infielder has signed a lucrative three-year contract worth $12.5 million at the beginning of January. This deal marks an exciting new chapter in Kim’s career, and he made his first appearance engaging with Dodger fans at the much-anticipated DodgerFest event on Saturday. The atmosphere was electric as fans had the opportunity to meet their new player and share in the excitement of the upcoming season.

Kim’s Longtime Admiration for the Dodgers Shines Through

Throughout his life, Kim has been a dedicated follower of the Dodgers, a passion that he openly expressed during an interview translated for fans. His admiration for the team is deeply rooted, and he emphasized, “It was my favorite team growing up, and obviously, it’s the best team in the world, so it’s been really exciting.” He also acknowledged the immense star power on the roster, highlighting his eagerness to learn from these outstanding players and to meet the high standards they set.

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Reuniting with Team Korea Teammate Tommy Edman

One of the most exciting aspects of joining the Dodgers for Kim is the chance to reunite with fellow Team Korea teammate Tommy Edman. Their previous collaboration during the World Baseball Classic in 2023 has created a strong bond, and Edman expressed his enthusiasm about playing alongside Kim again. “I was really excited,” Edman mentioned at DodgerFest. “I enjoyed getting the chance to play with him for the few weeks back in 2023. He’s an incredibly hard worker who plays the game the right way. He’s going to do whatever it takes to help the team win. So I’m excited to see him again.”

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Contract Details: A Glimpse into Kim’s Future with the Dodgers

Kim’s contract with the Dodgers is strategically structured, including a two-year club option for the 2028 and 2029 seasons, which could elevate his total earnings to $22 million, averaging about $9.5 million per season. Additionally, the Dodgers incurred a $2.5 million release fee to Kiwoom, constituting 20 percent of the overall contract package, in accordance with league regulations. This financial commitment underscores the Dodgers’ belief in Kim’s potential impact on the team.

Impressive 2024 Season: Kim’s Performance with the Kiwoom Heroes

During the 2024 season, Kim showcased his exceptional talent by posting an impressive .326 batting average with the Kiwoom Heroes, including hitting 11 home runs and driving in 75 RBIs. His individual achievements were remarkable; however, the team struggled overall, concluding the regular season with a disappointing 58-86 record, placing them at the bottom of the standings. Despite this, Kim’s performance highlighted his skills and readiness to contribute significantly to the Dodgers.

The Career Journey of Hyeseong Kim: A Look at His Stats

At just 25 years old, Kim boasts a career batting average of .304, complemented by 37 home runs and an impressive 211 stolen bases across 953 games played in the KBO. His consistent performance throughout his career demonstrates his potential to excel in Major League Baseball and make a meaningful impact on the Dodgers as they aim for championship glory.

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Photo Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

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