"Kim Hye-sung proved it once again," even captivating U.S. media with a home run, stellar defense, and a humble interview.

*This content was translated by AI.

He runs well, defends well, and has even made up for the one thing that was lacking: power hitting. Kim Hye-sung (27·LA Dodgers) left a deep impression on local media with an excellent interview.

Kim Hye-seong was selected as the starting shortstop batting eighth in the 2026 Major League Baseball (MLB) home game against the New York Mets, held at the UCLA Field at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California, USA, on the 16th (Korean time). In the bottom of the second inning with two outs and a runner on second base, Kim hit a lead-off two-run home run.

Dodgers Beat, which primarily covers Dodgers news, reported that "Kim Hye-seong gave an interview after the Dodgers defeated the Mets 8-2, and his response was as positive as his performance," adding that "he was clearly happy but did not forget to think about what he needs to do next."

Kim Hye-seong stepped up to the plate in the bottom of the second inning with two outs and a runner on second base, as both teams were locked in a 0-0 tie. Facing opposing starter Clay Holmes with a 2-1 count, she connected on a 94.4 mph (151.9 km/h) sinker that was on the edge of the strike zone, sending it over the center-left field fence for a go-ahead two-run home run.

It was Kim Hye-sung's fourth career home run, marking his first home run in eight games since being called up to the major leagues this season, as he entered his second year in MLB.

The media praised, "He proved once again why the Dodgers are giving him more opportunities by hitting his first home run of the season and showcasing excellent defense as a shortstop."

Kim Hye-seong, who began the season in the Triple-A minor leagues, was called up earlier than expected on the 6th due to an injury to Mookie Betts. He then appeared in eight games, posting a batting average of 0.280 (5 hits in 18 at-bats), one home run, one double, three RBIs, four runs scored, four walks, eight strikeouts, and one stolen base (0 caught stealing). His on-base percentage was 0.391, slugging percentage 0.500, and OPS (on-base percentage plus slugging percentage) 0.891.

Kim Hye-seong, who spoke with local reporters and gave an interview in the locker room, said, "Because I had a favorable count, I stepped into the batter's box with the mindset that I would not miss any pitches that entered the strike zone," and the media reported, "This approach proved highly effective. Dalton Rushing had already started the inning with a double, and Kim Hye-seong gave the Dodgers a 2-0 lead with a single swing."

Kim Hye-seong is continuously making adjustments to his swing to better face big league pitchers. He explained, "I am making small changes, but I don't think they are significant yet. I plan to continue making adjustments in the future." The media noted, "It was a very honest answer, which aligns well with the attitude he has shown since his major league debut. He is developing, but he is constantly working hard to show an even better performance."

Could it be because he unexpectedly started the season in the minor leagues? The current situation is even more satisfying. Kim Hye-seong said, "I feel really good. It is truly wonderful to play on the Major League stage. I am very happy to be playing here right now, I want to keep playing, and because I need to show that mindset through action and skill, I am working hard."

The media evaluated that "he is savoring this very moment and knows exactly what he needs to do to enjoy it for a long time."

In the top of the eighth inning, with the team leading 3-1, a player leaped to catch a ball hit by Luis Robert Jr. with two outs, quickly rose to his feet, and threw to first base to end the inning himself. Players watching Kim Hye-sung's defense from the dugout could not hide their joy, applauding enthusiastically.

Kim Hye-seong said, "I want to keep playing in games, spend more time at the shortstop position, and perform better. I believe I have improved significantly through repeated training and practice and by communicating with the defensive coaching staff. I want to continue performing well in the future." The media reported that this assessment aligns with the views of team officials, noting that Kim Hye-seong has shown increasingly stable performance as he participates in more games. Additionally, regarding his statement that he fully trusts and follows the coaching staff, the media conveyed, "This response clearly demonstrates why the Dodgers are investing in him. He appears to accept coaching well, remain calm, and willingly embrace the process."

However, he is still not satisfied. When asked about his feelings after hitting a home run, he said, "It felt really good while running the bases," but added, "However, I struck out three times today, so I am very disappointed."

The media stated, "Kim Hye-seong injected vitality into the Dodgers that night. After hitting his first home run and driving in two runs, he demonstrated steady growth as a shortstop," and added, "However, the most interesting part of the post-game interview was that he did not lose his humility amidst all these circumstances. He appeared happy, proud, and like a player who still believes that more effort lies ahead."

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*This content was translated by AI.