Appreciation from Shohei Ohtani is no small thing for KBO stars. Kim Hye-sung received a shout-out from the two-way superstar, catching the attention of fellow KBO MVP Kim Do-yeong. The moment did not go unidentified, as Do-yeong openly admitted that he felt envious of his senior’s special moment with Ohtani. While Ohtani’s effect extends far beyond MLB, his acknowledgment of KBO players adds another aspect to his global effect.

Do-yeong’s reviews highlight admiration and spark curiosity. Could this be a hint at an upcoming move to the MLB? Well, the interaction is just getting started. Shohei Ohtani’s shout-out to Kim Hye-sung was a moment of pride for the KBO; for multiple Korean baseball players, acknowledgment from such an MLB player is rare. Kim Do-yeong did not hide his feelings, remarking, “I was jealous of Hye-sung sunbae. He got a shout-out from Shohei Ohtani. I am waiting for the day when that happens to me too.”

This goes beyond admiration; it raises the issue of whether more KBO stars are MLB-ready. Hye-Sung, besides earning Shohei Ohtani’s praise, just wrapped up his eighth KBO season, hitting .326 with 30 stolen bases. His speed as well as defensive versatility make him a powerful MLB player, with the Seattle Mariners already analyzing him. In addition, Do-yeong had a breakout in 2024, slashing .347/.420/.647 with 38 home runs and 40 stolen bases, marking his elite power-speed power at just 21 years old. With KBO stars effectively making the jump, are MLB scouts ready for the upcoming wave of talent?

Shohei Ohtani’s effect and past MLB-KBO moments

Shohei Ohtani’s shout-out is not the first time an MLB superstar has acknowledged KBO talent. There have been multiple instances in which such instances have happened. One vital instance is when Clayton Kershaw praised Ryu Hyun-jin after the lefty transitioned to MLB. The three-time Cy Young winner said, “It took me 2 months to get my 1st MLB win and you did it in just 2 games.”. Ryu’s success with the Dodgers in 2019 reinforced the thought process that KBO pitchers could excel at the highest level. Moreover, when Ha-seong Kim moved to the Padres, then-teammate Manny Machado highlighted admiration for his defensive skills, and by 2023, Kim won an NL Gold Glove.

Numerically, KBO talent has proven itself capable. Ryu Hyun-jin posted a career MLB ERA of 3.27 over 10 seasons. In addition, Ha-seong Kim’s WAR jumped from 1.1 in his rookie season in 2021 to 5.8 in 2023. With Shohei Ohtani now praising such players, it continues a pattern of MLB stars validating the league’s talent. The issue now is, who will be the next KBO star to receive worldwide identification and make the leap? If history is any indicator, this trend is only accelerating.

Kim Do-yeong’s review highlights the hunger and aim of KBO stars striving for larger stages. With Ohtani acknowledging their talent, it is just a matter of time before more players make the jump. Do you think Do-yeong can be the next KBO star to land in the MLB? Let us know below.