Hyeseong Kim began the season with Triple-A Oklahoma City as he adjusted to making the transition from Korean Baseball Organization (KBO), but he then provided a spark for the Los Angeles Dodgers upon joining their roster.
After eight seasons in the KBO with the Kiwoom Heroes, Kim signed a three-year, $12.5 million with the Dodgers.
The Dodgers were patient with Kim and didn’t rush him into the Majors before he was ready. He hit .252/.328/.470 with eight doubles, one triple, and five home runs in 28 games for the Comets before getting recalled by the Dodgers.
Kim’s athleticism was seen one of his biggest strengths coming over from the KBO, and that has proved to be true as he transitioned to MLB. Speed has been Kim’s biggest tool in this first season with the Dodgers.
Kim maintains this high-level of performance by consuming 40 grams of protein five times throughout the day, or 200 grams per day, via SportsNet LA:
“Eat three meals per day and in between the meals I also take some proteins, so it’s five times protein.”
Kim accomplishes that by eating protein-dense meals as well as drinking protein shakes throughout the day:
“For the meals, I eat meats, like chicken or steak. And between the meals, I take some protein shakes.”
Kim is in the 86th percentile for sprint speed, clocking in at an average of 28.7 mph. He also has stolen 12 bases this season without being caught.
Hyeseong Kim conditioning drew immediate attention
When Kim reported to Camelback Ranch this season for the Dodgers Spring Training, manager Dave Roberts was surprised by how strong he was.
In fact, Kim had lowest body fat percentage of any player in camp at Camelback Ranch.
It took Kim a moment to match good mechanics with his raw athleticism, as he hit just .207/.303/.310 in 29 at-bats during Cactus League play.
But under the instruction of the Dodgers coaching staff, Kim has been able to show off the offensive potential that the organization identified in their scouting report.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
