TACOMA, WA – The Oklahoma City Comets, Triple-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers, have a new star on their roster, at least for a little while. Korean infielder Hyeseong Kim, who has been on the injured list with left shoulder bursitis since late July, officially began his rehab assignment with the team this week. The move comes as a welcome sign for the Dodgers, who have been battling a slew of injuries to key position players.
Kim, whose first name translates to “comet” in Korean, joined his teammates in Tacoma for a series against the Rainiers, the Triple-A affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. In his first game with the Comets on Thursday, Kim got off to a quick start, going 2-for-3 with one run scored. He was joined by fellow rehabbing Dodger, veteran utilityman Kiké Hernández, as both look to get back into game shape before rejoining the big-league club.
The 26-year-old rookie had a hot start to his Major League career after being called up in early May. A versatile defender who has played second base, shortstop, and center field this season, Kim’s .304/.338/.406 slash line through 58 games made him a valuable piece of the Dodgers offense. However, his performance had dipped in July, and the injury was revealed to be a contributing factor.
The most notable aspect of Kim’s rehab debut was his appearance in left field, a position he has not played at the MLB level this season. Kim has played the position in the past, however, and the move suggests the Dodgers may be exploring options for their outfield depth as they head toward the postseason. The Dodgers have been hit hard by injuries, with Max Muncy and Tommy Edman also sidelined.
Hyeseong Kim’s rehab with the Comets in Tacoma is a crucial step in his return to the Dodgers. The team is hoping he can regain his early-season form and provide a much-needed boost to the lineup as they enter the final stretch of the regular season. If his performance in Tacoma is any indication—he’s already picked up a couple of hits in his first game—the “Comet” is on a fast track back to Los Angeles.
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