Dodgers Recall Hyeseong Kim as Tommy Edman Goes on Injured List

ATLANTA — The Los Angeles Dodgers made a key roster decision on Saturday, recalling South Korean All-Star Hyeseong Kim from Triple-A Oklahoma City while placing second baseman Tommy Edman on the injured list due to a sore right ankle. This call-up is a significant moment for Kim, who is poised to make his Major League Baseball debut.

Kim, who signed a three-year contract worth $12.5 million with the Dodgers on January 3, started the 2025 season with Oklahoma City. Over 28 games, he achieved a batting average of .252, hitting five home runs and driving in 19 RBIs, along with 13 stolen bases. His versatility as a middle infielder and outfielder influenced the Dodgers’ decision to promote him.

Edman was placed on the injured list retroactively to April 30 after missing two games due to ankle soreness. He currently ranks second on the Dodgers with eight home runs and 24 RBIs, making his absence a notable loss for the team. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts commented on Edman’s condition, saying, “Tommy ran yesterday and just still didn’t feel great. There’s still some soreness in the ankle. He didn’t feel he could play tonight or even tomorrow potentially.” Roberts expects Edman to remain on the injured list for the minimum 10 days.

As the game began against the Atlanta Braves, Chris Taylor started at second base, with a delayed start of over three hours due to rain and lightning. Kim made his MLB debut during the ninth inning of a 10-3 victory against the Braves, filling in as the game progressed.

“I’ll figure it out to see if there’s an opportunity to start,” said Roberts prior to the game. “Right now, he can come off the bench and fill in at certain spots.” Kim’s debut is particularly notable as he becomes the 28th Korean player in MLB history, joining a trail of illustrious names like Park Chan-ho and Lee Jung-hoo.

Expressing his excitement about joining the big leagues, Kim stated, “I was very surprised [about being called up]. After the game [Friday] night, our Triple-A manager announced that I was going to go to The Show. I came here with a very happy and excited mindset. I’m very excited right now.” Kim’s career has flourished in South Korea, where he played for the Kiwoom Heroes before transitioning to Major League Baseball. The Dodgers’ decision to promote Kim showcases their confidence in his abilities and addresses the need for depth during Edman’s absence.

As Kim adjusts to the challenges of Major League Baseball, fans and teammates alike will be eager to see how he contributes to the Dodgers’ campaign, which remains strong with a first-place standing in the National League West, entering the game with a 22-10 record.