He became close friends with his opponent in just two days. LA Dodgers' Kim Hyesung's sociability captivated the local broadcast team.
On the 12th (Korean time), Kim Hyesung started as the eighth second baseman in a game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona, recording 1 hit in 3 at-bats.
That day, Kim Hyesung was able to record his first extra-base hit in the major leagues. In his first at-bat in the second inning, he struck out looking, and in his second at-bat in the fourth inning, he grounded out to the third baseman. Then, in the third at-bat in the sixth inning with no outs and a runner on first base, he seized the opportunity.
That day, he struggled against Arizona's starter, Jack Gallen's knuckle curve, but he hit it well. On a 1-ball count, he connected with the second pitch, a 79.5-mile knuckle curve, and sent it flying to right-center field. Kim Hyesung reached second base with his quick speed. His slide appeared to be faster than the tag from shortstop Geraldo Perdomo.
Arizona immediately requested a review challenge. A heartwarming scene unfolded at second base. Kim Hyesung and Perdomo greeted each other for the first time during the game the previous day (11th). Kim Hyesung hit a single against the Cy Young ace, Corbin Burnes, and reached second base on a bunt by Austin Barnes. At that moment, Perdomo tapped Kim Hyesung's helmet, expressing his delight. Without showing any displeasure, Kim Hyesung smiled and greeted Perdomo. Just one day after their initial greeting, they showed signs of friendship. After Arizona requested a video review, Kim Hyesung and Perdomo stood side by side watching the video on the scoreboard. Kim Hyesung argued he was safe, while Perdomo denied it, creating a playful scene. They enjoyed that moment, laughing together.
The local broadcast team also beamed at this scene. The crew from SportsNet LA, which broadcasts Dodgers games, observed Kim Hyesung's attempt at second base, noting, "What is impressive about Kim Hyesung's baserunning is his fearless demeanor and excellent judgment. This play was really good too. I believe Kim Hyesung made a great play."
They also said, "During this series, Kim Hyesung and Perdomo created several fun moments together. This was one of those scenes. Kim Hyesung claimed he was safe, while Perdomo reacted playfully. Kim Hyesung did not see it as a joke," he laughed. After the game, Orel Hershiser, who was conducting a review show on SportsNet LA, remarked while watching that scene, "Kim Hyesung and Perdomo had a delightful time at second base," adding, "When I was in the game, I didn't really like when our team's players and opposing players were laughing and chatting. But this time, it was kind of cute." Ultimately, the ruling was overturned, and Kim Hyesung's double was counted as a single, but he delighted those watching once again.
Since being called up to the major leagues on 4th, Kim Hyesung has been becoming a vital member of the Dodgers, performing effectively in key situations. The Dodgers' players have also been captivated by Kim Hyesung's smile and are accepting him as one of their own. Manager Dave Roberts said, "I think everyone loves Kim Hyesung. Everyone likes him and looks for him," praising Kim Hyesung.
With his unique sociability, Kim Hyesung is steadily solidifying his position in the Dodgers and extending his time in the major leagues.
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