"It's not flashy, it's not Pete Alonso, Alex Bregman" - Angels pundit claims Korean free agent could be a great addition to team's batting lineup

Pete Alonso (left), Alex Bregman (middle), and Hyeseong Kim (right)
Pete Alonso (left), Alex Bregman (middle), and Hyeseong Kim (right) (Credits: Getty)

The Los Angeles Angels have been the most active organization in this year's offseason. They have made a couple of notable signings, including the acquisition of lefty Yusei Kikuchi, catcher Travis d'Arnaud and outfielder Jorge Soler.

One particular name linked to the Angels of Anaheim, meanwhile, is KBO superstar Kim Hye-seong. The Korean infielder is adept at playing all infield roles and has proven himself to deliver hits during clutch situations in the Korean league. An outspoken supporter of the move is podcaster and analyst Jon Frisch who thinks Kim can be the solution that the Halos need.

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"It's not flashy, it's not Pete Alonso, not a heavy hitter like Alex Bregman," Frisch said. (11:13-11:18)

Frisch was quite particular about Hyeseong Kim's skillset. He lauded Kim's ability to get on base and be a complementary piece in the team's rebuilding phase. Frisch also cited Kim's signing won't be as big as Pete Alonso's or Alex Bregman's but would certainly fit in the team's system.

"Despite the transition from the KBO to MLB, this is the kind of guy that could really make a significant impact on the Halos. It's something that the Angels could use in 2025." (11:00-11:30)

In 2024, Hyeseong Kim compiled an impressive .326/.383/.458 slash line with an OPS of .841 with 11 home runs and 75 RBIs. Despite the KBO's reputation as a pitcher-friendly league, Kim has continued to produce at the plate due to his proficiency in contact hitting.

During his stay in South Korea playing for the Kiwoom Heroes, Kim's biggest contribution to the squad was in 2022 when he, alongside San Francisco Giants' Jung Hoo Lee and former Los Angeles Dodgers Yasiel Puig, led the squad to a Korean Series appearance. However, they would fall to the juggernaut SSG Landers squad in six games.


Los Angeles Angels' plethora of acquisitions ahead of 2025

In terms of hot stove dealings, the Los Angeles Angels are the most active team in the market. Since Oct. 31, 2024, the Halos have made a string of signings in hopes of once again contending for a postseason spot in the stacked AL West.

The team's front office started by acquiring two-time World Series champion Jorge Soler from the Atlanta Braves for Griffin Canning. They then followed it up by signing Chicago Cubs stalwart Kyle Hendricks to a one-year, $2.5 million deal.

The Halos then signed All-Star catcher Travis d'Arnaud to a two-year, $12 million contract. Just two days later, on Nov. 14, 2024, they acquired Kevin Newman with a $2.75 million deal until the end of 2025.

Finally, the team's biggest acquisition is Japanese lefty Yusei Kikuchi. The former All-Star will now showcase his skills in Anaheim after he signed a three-year, $63,675,000 contract with the Halos.

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Edited by nagpaltusharn25
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