When Kim Hye-seong (26) is on base, does Shohei Ohtani (31) bring him in? The fantastic scoring formula between Korean and Japanese players has been completed. Kim Hye-seong and Ohtani scored together for the second consecutive game.
The Dodgers suffered a walk-off loss to the Miami Marlins, ending 4-5, after an extra 10-inning match on the 7th (Korean time) at LoanDepot Park in Miami, Florida.
However, during the scoring process that day, the scene of Kim Hye-seong getting on base and Ohtani bringing him in was once again created. Kim Hye-seong, who made his major league debut in the starting lineup the day before (6th), recorded 2 hits, 1 RBI, and 1 run in 4 at-bats. In particular, after Kim Hye-seong, the leadoff batter, hit his first-ever hit in the top of the 5th, he successfully stole second base when Ohtani was at bat, and Ohtani brought Kim Hye-seong home with a two-run shot.
A similar scene occurred again the next day. In the top of the 5th, with two outs and no runners on, Kim Hye-seong recorded a hit to center field, marking his second consecutive hit. However, while trying to take a larger lead when Ohtani was at bat, he was caught in a pickoff by Miami pitcher Cal Quantrill, ending the inning. In the top of the 7th, with nobody out and a runner on first base, Kim Hye-seong hit a ground ball to first base. However, he avoided a double play with his quick speed and reached first safely, putting himself on base once again in front of Ohtani. This time, Kim Hye-seong did not rush, and Ohtani managed to hit a double to right field after a full count showdown. Kim Hye-seong automatically started running on the full count. He dashed toward home plate effortlessly. Although Miami's relay play connected neatly, there was no time to intervene. Once again, Kim Hye-seong's amazing speed was confirmed. The scene of Ohtani bringing Kim Hye-seong home was seen once again.
The broadcasting team of 'SportsNet LA,' which broadcasts Dodgers games, also analyzed this scene interestingly. The commentators noted, "Kim Hye-seong and Ohtani have shown great synergy again today following yesterday's game. This duo has done it again. We might have to refer to them as the big brother and little brother from overseas," laughing. Ohtani, a major league senior and also significantly older, has taken special care of Kim Hye-seong since spring training. Having the same CAA agency, Ohtani became acquainted with Kim Hye-seong even before he signed with the Dodgers, ahead of his major league debut.
Now that they are on the same team, Ohtani is even playing the role of a strong supporter for Kim Hye-seong. After Kim Hye-seong recorded his first hit and Ohtani scored a home run together the day before, an interesting scene unfolded in the dugout. Everyone high-fived, and Ohtani, while tapping Kim Hye-seong's helmet, celebrated Kim Hye-seong's first major league hit more than his own home run.
The 'Los Angeles Times' mentioned after the game on the 6th, 'The largest player on the Dodgers waited for the smallest player. The scene of the two players hugging and sharing joy was captured by the broadcast camera,' referring to Ohtani's affection for Kim Hye-seong.
Kim Hye-seong said, "I feel a little nervous when talking to Ohtani because he is an incredible star," while smiling. She added, "However, Ohtani always asks me questions first and talks to me. Thanks to that, I am quickly adjusting and adapting in the major leagues," expressing gratitude for the consideration of senior player Ohtani.
Ohtani also said after the game, "Kim Hye-seong showed an amazing performance. Overall, it was really good," celebrating Kim Hye-seong's achievement with gestures and words.
Kim Hye-seong is smoothly adjusting in the major leagues. He was called up to replace Tommy Edman, who is on the injured list due to an ankle injury, and there was a high possibility that he would go back down to the minor leagues once Edman returned. However, manager Dave Roberts and all his teammates like Kim Hye-seong. They recognize his presence both on and off the field.
Manager Roberts stated, "Everyone likes Kim Hye-seong and is happy. Everyone supports him, and he is an excellent team player. I think people recognize his humility and sincerity. He is truly a good person," adding, "He is a player who brings vitality to our team."
Freddie Freeman also evaluated, "He is a player who can move quickly. I'm glad to see the results coming from some adjustments made during spring training. He can be a really good weapon for our team." Kim Hye-seong is becoming a member of the Dodgers, bringing joy to everyone.
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