South Korean second baseman Hyeseong Kim agrees to $12.5M, 3-year deal with Dodgers, AP source says

Key Takeaways:

• Hyeseong Kim agrees to a three-year, $12.5 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
• The deal includes team options for 2028 and 2029, potentially increasing its value to $22 million over five years.
• Kim brings impressive career statistics from his time in South Korea.
• The Dodgers continue significant offseason acquisitions following their World Series win.
• Los Angeles will pay a $2 million posting fee to Kim’s South Korean club, the Kiwoom Heroes.

Dodgers Sign South Korean Star Hyeseong Kim

The Los Angeles Dodgers have reached an agreement with South Korean All-Star second baseman Hyeseong Kim on a $12.5 million, three-year contract. The deal adds another significant player to the World Series champions’ roster as they continue their aggressive offseason moves.

Contract Details

Kim’s contract includes team options for the 2028 and 2029 seasons. If exercised together, these options would raise the total value of the deal to $22 million over five years. The agreement must be finalized before Kim’s 30-day posting window expires at 5 p.m. EST. As part of the international signing process, the Dodgers will pay a $2 million posting fee to Kim’s South Korean club, the Kiwoom Heroes, calculated as 20% of the guaranteed money.

Impressive Career in South Korea

Turning 26 on January 27, Kim has spent eight seasons in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO), the last six with the Seoul-based Kiwoom Heroes. In his most recent season, he set career highs with a .326 batting average, 11 home runs, and 75 RBIs, while also stealing 30 bases. Over his career with the Nexen Heroes and Kiwoom, Kim has maintained a .304 average, hit 37 home runs, accrued 386 RBIs, and stolen 211 bases.

Strengthening the Dodgers’ Lineup

Adding Kim to the roster bolsters the Dodgers’ infield with a player known for both his offensive and defensive skills. His speed and batting prowess are expected to enhance the team’s performance as they prepare to defend their World Series title.

Dodgers’ Offseason Spending Spree

Kim’s signing is part of the Dodgers’ significant offseason acquisitions. The team has demonstrated a commitment to building a robust lineup by securing several high-profile players:

• Signed left-hander Blake Snell to a $182 million, five-year contract.
• Retained infielder/outfielder Tommy Edman with a $74 million, five-year deal.
• Agreed to a $17 million, two-year contract with outfielder Michael Conforto.
• Retained right-hander Blake Treinen with a $22 million, two-year agreement.
• Signed outfielder Teoscar Hernández to a $66 million, three-year contract.

Looking Ahead

The Dodgers’ strategic acquisitions signal their intent to maintain their status at the top of Major League Baseball. With the addition of international talent like Hyeseong Kim, the team is positioning itself for another successful season.