Dodgers' Hyeseong Kim gets honest about Gavin Lux trade and his approach to making the team

Despite coming off a strong career in the KBO, Hyeseong Kim is determined to earn his role with the Los Angeles Dodgers this upcoming season. The 25-year-old infielder signed a three-year, $12,500,000 deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers this offseason, which also includes team options for both 2028 and 2029.

An elite second baseman and shortstop, Hyeseong Kim should have plenty of opportunity to earn regular playing time with the Dodgers this season. He may have even more opportunities now after the World Series champions decided to trade Gavin Lux to the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for prospect Mike Sirota and a Competitive Balance Round A pick.

Despite the departure of Lux potentially opening the door for more opportunities, Kim has explained that the move is not going to change his approach to his MLB rookie campaign.

"My mindset hasn't changed. This is my first year and I will still have to prepare with the same approach of trying to make the team," Kim said of the trade of Gavin Lux affecting his plans.

Even though Hyeseong Kim is saying all of the right things about the trade, not having to compete with someone like Gavin Lux will certainly help open the door for more playing time.

While the Dodgers still have a number of veteran infielders who will be vying for time such as Miguel Rojas and Chris Taylor, they have both been mentioned as potential trade candidates, which helps Kim again.

Kim's defensive versatility, coupled with his elite batting average, should allow him plenty of opportunities this season to contribute. The South Korean star is the only player in KBO history to win the KBO League Golden Glove Award at both shortstop and second base, which only helps his case for additional playing time.

Mookie Betts will reportedly move back to the infield, which could complicate matters for Hyeseong Kim

While the uncertain futures of Chris Taylor and Miguel Rojas could help Hyeseong Kim earn playing time, Mookie Betts could create a bit of an obstacle. The eight-time All-Star will reportedly return to the infield in 2025 with both shortstop and second base being an option for him.

From being an elite bowler to playing all over the baseball field on defense, there is seemingly nothing that Mookie Betts cannot do. If Betts takes over shortstop to open the year, Kim will likely need to battle for starts at second base.

No matter where he winds up, Kim could soon become a staple in the Dodgers lineup given his skills on both sides of the ball.