The Los Angeles Angels lost to the Dodgers! How? South Korea’s former Kiwoom Heroes infielder Hyeseong Kim recently inked a three-year deal worth $12 million with the latter. Wait, there’s more! There are potential performance bonuses and an added club option that could bump up the total deal to $22 million. However, the Los Angeles Angels made a significantly larger offer—reportedly five years and $28 million—but lost out due to a critical technicality in their proposal structure.

According to sources, the Angels’ deal included substantial non-guaranteed money, creating uncertainty for Kim and his representatives. While the Dodgers’ offer was smaller, it provided more immediate financial security. Kim’s decision underscores how guaranteed money often trumps long-term promises, particularly for international players seeking stability in their transition to Major League Baseball.

Jeeho Yoo, an English sports writer for Yonhap News, Seoul, gave some insights on why Hyeseong Kim chose the Dodgers over the Angels. He wrote, “Angels did offer him 5yr/$28M, but not all the money was guaranteed. (not sure how much was). Kim signed for 3 years/$12.5M guaranteed with the Dodgers. Can make up to $22M with club option for 2 yrs.”

The Angels’ misstep highlights a recurring issue in their approach to international signings. Unlike the Dodgers, whose scouts have long monitored Kim and even faced him in a March exhibition game against Korean All-Stars, the Angels seemed to underestimate the importance of upfront guarantees. This oversight allowed the Dodgers to swoop in and secure the South Korean infielder, further bolstering their roster while the Angels were left to reconsider their strategy.

Kim, a three-time KBO Fielding Award winner, enters the MLB after his career in the KBO, slashing .326/.390/.451, stealing 30 bases and driving in 75 runs. The 25-year-old’s defensive versatility, with accolades at both shortstop and second base, positions him as a valuable utility player in the Dodgers’ stacked infield. With Mookie Betts and Gavin Lux locked in at shortstop and second base, respectively, Kim will slot into a backup role while providing dynamic speed and contact hitting off the bench. Wonder what this deal tells about the Dodgers?

This signing brings attention to their meticulous international scouting. Manager Dave Roberts previously praised Kim after the March exhibition game, noting his instincts and polished playstyle. The Dodgers’ ability to close contracts efficiently, even against higher offers, continues to distinguish them from their competitors in roster construction.

How Kim could have transformed Los Angeles Angels Infield?

The Los Angeles Angels missing out on signing Hyeseong Kim is a loss. Their infield has been facing consistency issues for quite some time now. Kim’s defensive skills in shortstop and second base could have really helped with the team’s strategy and strengthened the middle of the diamond area. Furthermore, Hyeseong’s ability to switch positions would have given the Angels flexibility to use David Fletcher and Luis Rengifo in positions where they excel the most. The unstable infield lineup could find an anchor with Kim’s exceptional fielding skills and keen defensive instincts.

Offensively, Kim would have brought balance to a lineup that tends to rely too heavily on the performance of Mike Trout. His ability to hit for average, coupled with his speed on the bases, could have added a dynamic element to the bottom of the order, generating consistent offensive production. The Angels have long needed a well-rounded, reliable contributor in their infield, and Kim’s blend of contact-hitting and base-running skills could have been the key to transforming their offense and providing much-needed depth.

It is true that Kim’s decision to join the Dodgers instead of the Los Angeles Angels leaves a significant gap in the Angels’ infield plans. It underscores the growing challenge the Angels face in attracting top-tier international players, leaving them to rethink their approach as they seek to strengthen their roster.

Do you think Hyeseong Kim could’ve fitted better in the Angels? Or Dodgers are the one? Share your thoughts with us!