Kim was a revelation during the regular season for the Dodgers, providing a much-needed spark when the team needed it through quality contact and excellent baserunning.
He started the year on the minor league roster so he could adjust his mechanics and move to the United States. His work paid off early, but a shoulder injury and a slump after his hot start relegated him to a platoon role when he returned.
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Manager Dave Roberts finally trusted Miguel Rojas, Enrique Hernandez and Tommy Edman over Kim in October and used him for base opportunities late in the game.
Considering it was his rookie year, making the postseason and making the roster was quite an achievement for Kim, and he is positioned to get more opportunities for more playing time.
Before the season starts, however, Kim wants to represent his home country Korea in the World Baseball Classic.
“If the club approves and I am selected for the national team, then I will definitely participate” Kim told a Korean news channel.
“Every player dreams of playing in the national team. I am no exception.” “If the team allows it, I would like to go to the first training camp, but I am not sure yet. I think my departure date will be fixed as soon as I hear from the team.”
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In 71 games at the Major League level, Kim hit .280/.314/.385 with three home runs and 17 RBIs, stealing 13 bases.
He still has a long way to go, especially when it comes to seeing pitches and making quality contact on a regular basis, but at 26, Kim has plenty of time to become a plus hitter, along with his impressive defensive range and baserunning threat.
Photo credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn images
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