Shohei Ohtani "Welcomes" Kim Hye-seong to the LA Dodgers Ahead of His February Spring Training Debut

Kim Hye-seong is set to team up with Shohei Ohtani after signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers. According to Financial News on January 4, Kim finalized his decision to join the Dodgers just three hours before the deadline. The contract spans 3+2 years and is worth up to $22 million (approximately 32.4 billion KRW), with $12.5 million (approximately 18.4 billion KRW) guaranteed for the first three years.

The Los Angeles Angels reportedly offered a more lucrative deal of $28 million over five years. According to CAA Sports, which represents both Kim and Ohtani, "The Angels presented better terms than the Dodgers." Offers also came from the Seattle Mariners, Chicago Cubs, and San Diego Padres, but Kim ultimately chose the Dodgers.

Reacting to the news, Shohei Ohtani welcomed Kim via Instagram, sharing an official photo of the signing and adding a Korean message, "Welcome, my friend!"

While Kim’s signing didn’t create as much buzz as Lee Jung-hoo’s move to the San Francisco Giants last year, he is seen as a highly versatile player. The U.S. baseball outlet MLB Trade Rumors ranked Kim 26th among free agents this off season and reported that around ten teams had considered signing him.

Kim debuted as a starting infielder for the Kiwoom Heroes in 2018 and has proven his abilities with a career batting average of .304 and 211 stolen bases in the KBO. After taking over as the team’s primary shortstop following Kim Ha-seong’s move to the MLB in 2021, Kim Hye-seong achieved a .304 batting average and led the league with 46 stolen bases during the 2022 season, earning his first Golden Glove. Remarkably, he became the first player in KBO history to win Golden Gloves at both second base and shortstop, showcasing his exceptional skills and versatility, which have made him a competitive candidate for the MLB.

However, Kim’s relatively low posting fee reflects certain limitations. With only 37 career home runs, his power-hitting ability is considered underwhelming, and his primary position as a second baseman may have restricted his market value during negotiations.

Nevertheless, joining a powerhouse team like the Dodgers—featuring stars like Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Tommy Edman—is expected to offset these shortcomings, according to reports.

CAA Sports commented, "Although the financial terms may not be ideal, Shohei Ohtani’s advice likely influenced Kim’s decision. After much deliberation, Kim chose to prioritize his dreams and other factors over monetary considerations."