Dodgers Insider Thinks Kim Will Stay After Betts’ Return
Los Angeles Dodgers insider Doug McKain believes infielder Hyeseong Kim will maintain his roster spot when Mookie Betts returns from the IL. Kim began the season in Triple-A and moved up to MLB quickly after Betts landed on the injured list with a strained oblique, and he has proven he can last at the top level during his month-long stay. he’s batting .
314 through 26 games so far, and has an . 801 OPS with a homer and eight RBIs. Additionally, he ranks in the top 20% of MLB with two outs above average and has been a real threat on the base paths with five steals in six attempts.
“He’s just been a better hitter in his opportunities,” McKain said. “Just like Justin Wrobleski has earned his spot in the rotation, I think that Hyeseong Kim has earned his spot to stay at the big league level when Mookie Betts comes back, and even when Kike Hernandez comes back. ” The Dodgers are likely to move around one of their several utility infielders upon Betts’ return, but if not Kim, then who?
Apr 15, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers second baseman Hyeseong Kim celebrates after hitting a two-run home run against the New York Mets in the second inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Who Could the Dodgers Send Down When Mookie Betts is Back? The Dodgers have a few options when Betts comes back if moving Kim isn’t on the agenda .
The first of which is optioning Alex Freeland to Triple-A. Freeland still has Triple-A options left, and would not have to clear waivers to head back to the minor leagues. Freeland has exclusively played second base this season, but hasn’t impressed despite his generous game time.