The Dodgers’ landing Shohei Ohtani on a record-breaking deal was never about just adding the two-way phenom to their roster—it was a long-term strategy. This move not only secured baseball’s biggest star’s stay in Los Angeles but also made the franchise the go-to landing spot for Japan’s top baseball exports. With Ohtani on their roster, the Dodgers did not even have to outbid other teams to sign two more phenomenal Japanese talents, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki—it was simply a matter of these stars choosing L.A. And the last free agency was no different either, when the Blues secured another Japanese phenom for just $12,5 millions.

Hyeseong Kim, in his rookie year, has been a revelation for the defending champions. His success has been so overwhelming that even a routine strategic move by his manager has sparked a divisive discussion – one that even includes comparisons to none other than superstar Shohei Ohtani.

It all came to a head on June 8 when he faced the Cardinals. The Dodgers were playing to avoid a sweep. Kim did his part playing center field. The lefty added the first-ever MLB triple to his resume, a line-drive job that plated two runs and gave the Dodgers an early 3-0 lead in the second inning. Later, he made an incredible running catch into the wall. Yet, in the seventh inning, a bold decision was made.

With a left-handed pitcher entering for the Cardinals, skipper Dave Roberts pinch-hit for the red-hot Kim and substituted him for Enrique Hernandez. That move sparked a passionate discussion, especially among Dodgers insiders.

Doug McKain of Dodgers Nation broke down the key to Kim’s success. “The big adjustment they made with Hyeseong Kim is he’s ditched that leg kick.” McKain exclaimed, “He’s keeping his foot close to the ground, similar to what we saw with Shiohei Ohtani.” He noted that Kim’s slugging and bat-to-ball skills have soared as a result. This comparison to Ohtani’s own adjustment highlights the massive potential the Dodgers’ hitting coaches have unlocked.

McKain then addressed Roberts’ decision directly, arguing it’s time to unleash the phenom. “He needs to play more. And it can’t be just against righties.” He pointed to Kim’s stellar defense, like the catch he made against the Cardinals, as further proof of his value. “He’s showing that speed and athleticism to get one on the warning track,” McKain added. The argument is clear: Kim’s all-around game is too good for a simple platoon role.

According to McKain, the next step in his development – something crucial for the team’s championship hopes. “You have to fast-track that development if you want to make sure that he’s a part of your postseason mix,” he urged. This means letting him face adversity. “We have to get a slump through him because that’s how you truly see if a guy is going to stick.” Pushing Kim through challenges now is the only way to know if he can be a reliable force in October.

Kim’s immediate impact with the Dodgers

So far, Kim has been far more than just respectable. In 26 games, the Korean rookie is hitting .414 with a 1.029 OPS. He has also contributed two home runs and six stolen bases, demonstrating his unique combination of power and speed. His 185 wRC+ makes Kim 85% more productive than a league-average hitter. These are the numbers of an emerging star.

This top-tier production comes from being highly successful over a long period. Kim is considered one of the best baseball players the KBO League has ever seen. Played for the KBO for eight seasons before joining the Dodgers, he won the Gold Glove four times at each position – shortstop and second base. He finished his KBO career with a .304 batting average and 211 stolen bases.

After a call-up on May 3, Kim immediately became what manager Dave Roberts called a “spark plug.” Roberts praised his “youthful enthusiasm” and “joy,” adding, “guys feed off the energy.” He brought an infectious excitement that energized the star-studded clubhouse. His performance in the first 13 games, where he hit .452, proved his impact. Hyeseong Kim wasn’t just happy to be there; he was a difference-maker.

His All-Star teammates quickly took notice. Mookie Betts praised his “infectious smile.” Freddie Freeman called him a “nice little weapon” after seeing his adjustments. Even Shohei Ohtani commended his “amazing performance.”

Such praises from the team leaders show how seamlessly Kim has fit into the Dodgers‘ winning culture, both on and off the field. He is clearly a player his teammates believe in.

But the question remains: Will the Dodgers stick to their platoon plan, or will they fully unleash the dynamic $12.5M phenom who is already drawing comparisons to a legend?