“He is the most likable player I have met.”

Los Angeles Dodgers Director General Brandon Gomes recently appeared on MLB Network radio and shared his impressions of Kim Hae-sung so far. Gomes has consistently spoken positively about Kim Hae-sung.

Gomes evaluated, “Kim Hae-sung has been truly excellent from the beginning. During spring training, Kim Hae-sung made tremendous efforts to improve his swing. Although he is doing well now, I believe he can reach a higher level. He is a really dynamic player.”

Kim Hae-sung underwent a major overhaul of his batting form under the club's guidance during spring training. Since he had to adjust his batting form while playing in actual games during this period, there were many trial and error experiences. The results were not good. Ultimately, he was excluded from the roster for the Tokyo opening series and began the season in Triple-A.

Afterward, he gradually adapted to his batting form in Triple-A and was called up to the major leagues in early May due to Tommy Edman's ankle injury. After being called up, Kim Hae-sung showcased his presence in offense, defense, and base running. Despite some disappointing performances in defense and awkward moments in the unfamiliar center field position, the club remains generally favorable towards Kim Hae-sung. As Kim Hae-sung proved his worth, the Dodgers released Chris Taylor, a veteran super utility player and member of the World Series championship team who had been part of the team's golden era. Before Taylor, the club also traded infield prospect Gavin Lux, whom they had cherished and nurtured, to the Cincinnati Reds. These were club-level efforts to create a place for Kim Hae-sung.

Sports Illustrated, covering Gomes' interview, stated that 'Kim Hae-sung's batting performance stands out. However, after Edman returns from the injured list, he is likely to play a larger role as a pinch hitter and late-game defensive replacement.' Gomes believes in Kim Hae-sung's potential and also noted that he highly values Kim Hae-sung's attitude and character, among other intangible qualities.

Gomes emphasized that “Kim Hae-sung is truly exceptional in defense and speed. He actually has quite high chances of becoming an excellent center fielder.”

He also commented, “He is the most likable friend I have met in my baseball life. He has amazing energy and always wears a smile on his face. You can feel that he loves baseball and enjoys coming to the ballpark every day.” He added that “he brings vitality to our team, which is composed of veterans who have experienced championships. Thanks to Kim Hae-sung, the entire team feels younger and more energetic.” Manager Dave Roberts has consistently evaluated Kim Hae-sung's energy positively. However, he is currently not getting playing opportunities. He has been excluded from the starting lineup for three consecutive games. Although he has survived in the major leagues after Taylor's release, he has started only one game in the last seven. He has missed three games as well. Despite the Dodgers being tightly platooning left and right starters, he has been overlooked even when a right-handed starter was on the mound.

However, an opportunity to return to the field has arrived. On the 31st (Korea time), leading up to the game against the New York Yankees, Mookie Betts was excluded from the starting lineup. He injured his left toe while walking around at home in the middle of the night without turning on the lights. Although a small fracture was found, he is currently complaining of pain. He is expected to miss at least one or two games.

In the game on the 31st, Kim Hae-sung did not get the chance because left-handed starter Max Fried took the mound, but in the second game of the series against the Yankees, right-handed pitcher Will Warren is expected to start. Kim Hae-sung might get another chance. Now it is time for Kim Hae-sung to seize the opportunity and create his moment.

[OSEN]