Shohei Ohtani’s extraordinary skill is routine for Dodgers fans. His very presence boosts the club’s World Series title aspirations. But looks like he’s about to get some competition. As a rookie is quietly changing the team’s internal dynamics. And the Los Angeles Dodgers are loving it! Interestingly, Ohtani doesn’t seem to be viewing the Dodgers’ newest addition as a competition. If anything, he’s celebrating and bonding with him. Well, that’s our Shotime! And the effect? A significant boost in the lineup. As their friendship turns heads, uncertainty is looming over the rookie’s head. Has he done enough to stay in the big leagues for good?
Meet Hyeseong Kim, the newest Dodgers’ major league team addition. He was called up to fill a spot compromised due to an injury. And his early performances have been just what the lineup needed. Combining defensive skill with baserunning speed, he has rapidly gained popularity among fans and become a valuable asset to the Dodgers’ lineup. This 26-year-old has already started making headlines. Ohtani effect? Well, you can say so—after all, they are baseball besties.
Earlier this year, in January, the Dodgers brought in Kim on a three-year, $12.5 million deal. His MLB debut occurred on May 3 against the Atlanta Braves, where he showcased his defensive abilities. Two days later, in his first career start against the Miami Marlins, he went 2-for-4 with an RBI and a stolen base, quickly demonstrating his value at the plate. The whole team was happy. But do you know who was especially overjoyed? Yes, his baseball bestie, Ohtani!
But Ohtani wasn’t the only one grinning from ear to ear. Manager Dave Roberts, aka the man in charge, also couldn’t conceal his excitement about Kim’s efforts. Roberts remarked, “He just adds that spark to our ballclub,” praising his adaptability and vitality with the team. Initially, Kim was expected to be sent back to Triple-A once the injured Tommy Edman returned. Nevertheless, his performance warranted a second look.
Roberts underlined the need to balance short-term contributions and long-term growth. He said, “I think with Hyeseong, with young players, there’s always that dynamic of what in the short term can help the long run, and certainly his skill set plays to that.” What’s Ohtani’s take on this?
The Dodgers’ prodigy hasn’t commented on his bestie’s long-term play. But after Kim’s performance against the Marlins, he didn’t fail to appreciate him, saying, “Just an amazing performance by Kim. Really good overall even. Yesterday as well. So I’m very happy for him.”
Now the lingering question: Will he play?
This decision will likely involve many factors. After Edman’s return and recovery, his role will be crucial. Other Dodger utility players should be considered. The Dodgers must decide if Kim’s potential upside and immediate contributions outweigh the benefit of regular at-bats in the minors. This decision is crucial for Kim’s future and the Dodgers’ championship prospects.
While Kim’s long-term place on the roster is uncertain, his baseball bestie is poised to set yet another record.
From record-breaker to repeat contender: Shohei Ohtani
Ohtani has been building on his record 2024 season—the one when he became the first MLB player to hit 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season. Having reached double figures in both home runs and stolen bases faster than he did last year, he is off to another fantastic start in 2025. Shohei Ohtani has recorded 10 home runs and 10 stolen bases through 35 games, making himself a serious contender to repeat his unmatched 50-50 accomplishment.
His recent shows have been especially remarkable. Ohtani hit his 10th home run of the season in a series against the Marlins, a towering shot following a 117.9 mph laser the day before. These back-to-back homers at loanDepot Park showcase his strength and consistency at the plate.
Ohtani’s speed on the basepaths is also remarkable. He reached his 10th stolen base of the season in the third inning against the Marlins, accomplishing this milestone eight games quicker than in 2024. This increase in his base-stealing speed indicates he might exceed his prior season’s totals.
If the two-way star stays on this pace, he is projected to finish the season with about 47 stolen bases and 47 home runs. Although slightly below the 50-50 mark, his track record of outstanding second-half performances suggests he might once again attain, or even surpass, this remarkable standard.
What do you think? Will this dynamic duo continue to shape the Dodgers’ success story this season?
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