Kim Hye-seong Projected for Dodgers Postseason Roster
The speedster is slated to join the 26-man roster to provide defensive utility and pinch running for Los Angeles.
Updated on Oct. 3, 2026 in Baseball
Live Poll
Should teams prioritize specialized roles like pinch runners for short-term postseason success?
The Athletic has projected Kim Hye-seong to join the Los Angeles Dodgers Division Series roster. The move aims to address infield depth for the team, which currently features the oldest position group in the major leagues.
Why it matters
Kim Hye-seong is valued for his speed and defensive versatility, qualities that the Dodgers are looking to add for their postseason run. His inclusion provides a strategic bench option to support a veteran-heavy infield.
The projected 26-man roster includes 15 position players and 11 pitchers. Kim Hye-seong has not appeared in the major leagues since his last call-up in May 2026.
The players
Kim Hye-seong
He is an infielder known for his speed and defensive capabilities who played in Triple-A during the 2026 season.
Los Angeles Dodgers
They are a Major League Baseball franchise based in Los Angeles that is preparing for a Division Series appearance.
Kim Ha-seong
He is a professional baseball player for the Atlanta Braves who appeared in the Wild Card Series.
Hosue De Paula
He is a baseball player expected to fill a pinch-hitting role for the Dodgers during the postseason.
The details
Kim Hye-seong spent the remainder of the 2026 season playing in Triple-A, but he is now expected to return to the Dodgers lineup for the Division Series. He will likely serve as a pinch runner and provide defensive coverage, alongside Hosue De Paula who is projected to serve as a pinch hitter.
Timeline
May 2026: Kim Hye-seong was last called up to the major leagues.
October 3, 2026: The Athletic published the postseason roster projection.
Season Trajectory
This roster adjustment reflects the Dodgers strategy to leverage specialized bench talent to navigate the high-stakes environment of the postseason. Following the 2026 MLB Wild Card Series, the team is positioning itself to address specific weaknesses in an aging infield.
Kim Hye-seong is projected to fill a bench spot, which likely reduces the available roster space for other reserve infielders. His presence as a pinch runner provides an immediate tactical advantage in close, late-inning postseason scenarios.
The takeaway
Postseason success often hinges on having specialized bench players who can impact the game without needing regular at-bats. Teams that effectively utilize speed and defensive utility players during playoff series can frequently flip the outcome of close matchups.
Further reading
For more updates on the team, visit the Los Angeles Baseball section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 조선일보.
Live Poll
Should teams prioritize specialized roles like pinch runners for short-term postseason success?
