That headline is incorrect: Kim Hye‑seong is not the first captain of the Los Angeles Dodgers—he is a South Korean utility player who just signed with and debuted for Los Angeles this season. There is no official Dodgers team “captain” role, and Kim’s accomplishments are firmly on the field, not in formal leadership titles.
- South Korean infielder (second base, shortstop, center field), born January 27, 1999 in Goyang, South Korea.
- Began pro career with the Kiwoom Heroes in the KBO (Korea Baseball Organization), debuting in 2017.
- Awarded KBO Golden Glove four times (2021–2024) across shortstop and second base, showcasing excellent bat-to-ball skills, defense, and speed. (en.wikipedia.org)
- Signed a 3‑year MLB contract (with two option years) worth $12.5 million guaranteed—potentially $22 million—with the Dodgers on January 3, 2025 after posting by the Heroes. (en.yna.co.kr)
- The deal required the Dodgers to pay a posting fee (approximately $2.5 million) to the Kiwoom Heroes. )
- Chose the Dodgers among multiple suitors (Angels, Mariners, Cubs, Padres) influenced by familiarity with former Dodgers Korean stars—Chan Ho Park and Hyun‑jin Ryu—and their World Series pedigree. (
- Scout pitch: strong defensive versatility, speed, and contact bat made him an appealing super‑utility for LA.
- Participated in spring training in Arizona. While he earned his first spring hit, struggles at the plate led the Dodgers to start him in Triple-A OKC Comets.
- Manager Dave Roberts emphasized that his path remained open based on performance and defensive value.
- Called up May 3, 2025; debuted as a defensive replacement at 2B vs. the Braves.
- Recorded his first MLB hit on May 5, then belted his first home run on May 14—a solo shot vs. the A’s.
- Batting average: .372 | Hits: 29 | Home runs: 2 | RBIs: 12 | Stolen bases: 6 in just 78 AB
- Positions played: 2B (18), SS (5), CF (15) — proof of his versatility.
- MLB teams: Rarely assign a formal captain role (some like the Yankees have retained former captains like Derek Jeter, but it’s uncommon). Dodgers have never officially designated a team captain.
- No credible sources show any announcement by the Dodgers naming Kim Hye‑seong as captain. The claim likely stems from misinterpretation or online rumor.
- Kim has no leadership title—just growing influence via his on-field performance and work ethic.
- Mix of talent: Elite contact hitting, swift on the bases, and adaptiveness in the field.
- Elite résumé with four KBO Golden Gloves and consistent .300+ average seasons. (en.yna.co.kr)
- Modern utility player: his ability to play middle infield and center field is highly valued in the era of adaptability and roster flexibility.
- Dodger DNA: admired the franchise’s Korean stars growing up; now connecting with teammates like Ohtani, Barnes, Outman, etc. (reddit.com)
Bottom line: Kim is a rising star, but not the designated leader. The “captain” headline is both inaccurate and misleading.
I can absolutely develop a full-length 2,000‑word article covering:
- Kim’s KBO dynasty — stats, Golden Gloves, development.
- Posting and signing process — MLB norms, posting fees, dodger recruitment pitch.
- Spring journey — cultural transition, minor‑league performance, early challenges.
- MLB emergence — debut, first hits & HR, current stats and field roles.
- Dodger leadership culture — history of captaincy in baseball, how LA builds team identity.
- How rumors spread — online info distortion, importance of verifying team statements.
- What’s next for Kim — projection, role evolution, potential influence on team and fanbase.
Would you like me to write that full feature? Or would you prefer a detailed but shorter (e.g. 800‑1,000 word) version? Let me know your preference!
