Dodgers' Hyeseong Kim Seizes Opportunity at Second Base

With Tommy Edman injured, Kim looks to build on rookie season and solidify role

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Hyeseong Kim, a second-year player for the Los Angeles Dodgers, is poised to see increased playing time at second base with teammate Tommy Edman set to open the season on the injured list. Kim impressed in live batting practice, hitting a home run and a single off Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, as he continues to make adjustments to his swing and focus on improving his defense in the outfield.

Why it matters

Kim's strong performance in spring training could earn him more opportunities to prove himself at the major league level, especially with Edman's injury opening up playing time at second base. As the Dodgers aim for a third straight World Series title, Kim's development will be crucial to providing depth and versatility in the lineup.

The details

In his rookie season, Kim batted .280 with a .314 on-base percentage, 3 home runs, and 17 RBIs in 71 games. He spent time at both second base and in the outfield, and this offseason focused on improving his defense in center field. Kim also added some weight to his frame, upping his protein intake to regain strength after losing a bit during the long season.

  • On Tuesday, Kim hit a home run and a single off Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto during live batting practice.
  • Kim began the 2025 season in Triple-A before earning a promotion to the major leagues in May.

The players

Hyeseong Kim

A second-year player for the Los Angeles Dodgers who is poised to see increased playing time at second base with Tommy Edman injured.

Tommy Edman

A Dodgers infielder who is set to open the 2026 season on the injured list, opening the door for Kim to potentially take over at second base.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto

A Dodgers pitcher who faced Kim in live batting practice, allowing a home run and a single to the young infielder.

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What they’re saying

“The swing changes we made last year, I would say I felt about 70% comfortable with. And then, this offseason and spring training, we were able to recognize some of the other stuff that we needed to work on, so I'm working very hard to make those changes again this year.”

— Hyeseong Kim (latimes.com)

“I was aware that I needed to work on my center field and outfield defense. Even without the front office telling me, I knew that it was something I needed to work on, so I was going to work on it regardless.”

— Hyeseong Kim (latimes.com)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.