Imagine it’s your first day with the Los Angeles Dodgers. You are all set to don the bright white Dodgers jersey, but it isn’t on the pitch or the training field but at a heartfelt meeting with the Los Angeles heroes!

Hyeoseong Kim, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ newest signing had one such opportunity. Kim marked his first day by meeting the city’s firefighters who fought the devastating wildfires in L.A. As he stood with those brave heroes, he was overwhelmed during the Dodgers’ “Love LA Community” tour. The warmth, love, and sense of gratitude experienced by him, despite not playing a single game for the team was something extraordinary for the 26-year-old.

“I am really honored they recognized me,” said Kim who could already feel the bond with the Dodgers fans. “Even though I haven’t played a single game yet, I am going to remember this moment them greeting me and welcoming me this way to Los Angeles,” he further added. For Kim, it was clear, that the Dodgers were more than just a team, they were a family!

While he was soaking in the warm environment, he also expressed the focus and preparations for the upcoming season.“I will keep that honor in my mind and work hard to prepare well for the opening game,” he said.

Donning the Dodgers jersey means you inherit the city’s pride, warmth, and harmony. Even their current biggest star, Shohei Ohtani, welcomed him to the team, posting a message in Korean to Instagram when the deal was finalized. “Welcome my friend,” read the caption.

This isn’t just the start of Kim’s baseball journey but also the genesis of his connection with the city that views him as one of their own!

Hyeosong Kim reveals why he chose the Dodgers

The Los Angeles Dodgers is the team that is synonymous with incredible aura and greatness. For many players, even the thought of playing for this team seems undeniable. Similarly, for Hyeosong Kim the offer from the Dodgers seemed too hard to resist.

Despite having offers from other teams, including the Los Angeles Angels, Kim had already decided. “Well they are the Dodgers,” he said while being asked why he chose the Dodgers. For him it was simple; having watched Chan Ho Park and Hyun-Jin Ryu play there made him lean toward the Dodgers.

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Kim had a stellar season in the Korean Baseball Organization hitting .326 with 41 extra-base hits and 75 RBI in 2024, alongside 30 stolen bases. On top of that, his defensive records speak highly of his abilities, having won Golden Gloves at both shortstop and second base. These skills, combined with his high baseball IQ, will undoubtedly make him a valuable asset to the Dodgers’ already-loaded roster.

As he steps under the bright lights of the Dodgers’ stadium, all eyes would be on him. Kim would be keen on becoming a part of the rich history of the Dodgers and earning a name for himself in the coming years.