The Los Angeles Dodgers have made several roster moves, including optioning infielder Hyeseong Kim to Triple-A Oklahoma City.
This decision was part of a series of changes prompted by Teoscar Hernández’s left hamstring strain, which led to him being placed on the 10-day injured list.
Kim to Work on Swing in Triple-A
Kim’s place on the Dodgers’ roster had become uncertain recently.
The Dodgers decided it would be better for Kim to play every day in Oklahoma City rather than have limited opportunities in Los Angeles to address issues with his swing.
General manager Brandon Gomes stated the aim is to get his swing back to where it was when he first came up.
Gomes said there were issues with his setup that started to drift, resembling what they saw last year and the Dodgers hope that he can recapture his early-season form.
Kim initially performed well, hitting .314 with an .800 OPS through his first 26 games, but then his performance declined, hitting .174 with a .424 OPS over his subsequent 17 games.
Espinal Re-Signed Amid Roster Changes
In addition to optioning Kim, the Dodgers re-signed utility man Santiago Espinal.
The team also recalled outfielder/first baseman Ryan Ward from Triple-A Oklahoma City and transferred left-hander Blake Snell to the 60-day IL.
Espinal brings another right-handed bat to the bench and can play all over the infield as well as the corner outfield spots.
Manager Dave Roberts said Espinal understands his value, is ready when called upon, and is trusted defensively.
Espinal had previously been designated for assignment and elected free agency before re-signing with L.A.
Freeland’s Role and Roster Balance
Alex Freeland was recalled when Kiké Hernández was placed on the 10-day IL with a left oblique strain.
Roberts indicated that Freeland would likely see the bulk of the playing time against right-handed pitching at second base, a role that Kim had previously filled.
Recalling Ward made the bench heavy on left-handed hitters.
The Dodgers lost the only true infielder/outfielder they had on the roster when Kiké Hernández was sidelined again.
The Dodgers hope Kim will regain his form in Triple-A and return to contribute later in the season.