Dodgers Infielder Hyeseong Kim Targets Hitting Gains
The infielder addressed his 2026 performance on social media as he prepares for the final year of his current contract.
Updated on Oct. 19, 2026 in Baseball
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Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Hyeseong Kim publicly addressed his 2026 season performance on Instagram, noting his intention to improve his hitting ability. Kim hit .259 across 43 games this past season.
Why it matters
Kim stated he must improve his hitting consistency to remain a viable option in the major leagues. The upcoming season represents the final guaranteed year of his current contract with the Dodgers.
Kim signed a three-year, $12.5 million deal before 2025 and is slated to play his age-28 season in 2027. The Dodgers hold $5 million club options for both 2028 and 2029.
The players
Hyeseong Kim
He is a professional baseball infielder who plays for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Alex Freeland
He is a professional baseball player who competed with Kim for a roster spot during the 2026 season.
Los Angeles Dodgers
They are a professional Major League Baseball team based in Los Angeles.
The details
After losing his Opening Day roster spot to Alex Freeland and spending time in Triple-A, Kim appeared as a defensive replacement in Game 4 of the National League Division Series. He was subsequently excluded from the National League Championship Series roster and optioned back to the minor leagues.
Timeline
2025 season: Kim signed a three-year contract with the Dodgers.
Early April 2026: Kim replaced Alex Freeland on the active roster.
October 2026: Kim posted a message to fans on Instagram.
2027 season: Kim will play in the final guaranteed year of his contract.
Season Trajectory
Kim's struggle to maintain a consistent role reflects the fierce competition for depth spots on a perennial contender. His path forward depends on proving his offensive value to justify the team exercising his upcoming club options.
Kim's production metrics suggest he faces a significant challenge to increase his batting average from the .259 mark he posted in 2026. Fantasy managers and fans should note that his path to the active roster remains narrow given the team's current depth.
The takeaway
Kim remains focused on refining his offensive mechanics during the offseason to secure his future in the majors. His ability to adapt his hitting approach will be the primary factor in his contract extension prospects.
Further reading
For more updates on the team, visit the Los Angeles Baseball section.
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