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Dodgers’ Edman Advises Kim on Versatility in the Majors

Glendale: Tommy Edman, the super utility man for the reigning World Series champions Los Angeles Dodgers, is urging his new teammate Kim Hye-seong to embrace versatility on the field. Having excelled in multiple positions himself, Edman is keen to pass on his experience to Kim, his former South Korean national team colleague. According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim joined the Dodgers in January after an eight-year career in the Korea Baseball Organization, where he primarily played second base for the Kiwoom Heroes but also covered shortstop, third base, and the corner outfield positions. The Dodgers, with a wealth of middle infield talent, could benefit from Kim's adaptability. Edman shared his insights with South Korean reporters at the Dodgers' spring training in Camelback Ranch, Arizona, emphasizing the importance of readiness for various roles. "You've got to always be prepared for wherever you're needed," Edman noted. "Baseball's a long season and there's lots of situations that can arise." Edman, award ed the 2021 National League Gold Glove at second base while with the St. Louis Cardinals, demonstrated his own versatility last season, playing center field, shortstop, and second base for the Dodgers. His performance during the Dodgers' championship run earned him MVP honors in the National League Champions Series. Born to a Korean mother and an American father, Edman made history as the first half-Korean player to represent South Korea in international baseball at the 2023 World Baseball Classic. Edman and Kim, who was his backup, are eager to reunite on the field. "We're very excited to play together again," Edman said. Edman emphasized the Dodgers' team approach to helping Kim acclimate to high-pressure situations, reminiscent of their World Series experience. "We're kind of just trying to get him used to that type of environment," Edman explained. He praised Kim's growth and potential, noting his increased strength and improved swing. Kim faces competition from veteran utility player Miguel Rojas, who supports Kim's integration into the Dodgers' demanding culture. Rojas, who played all four infield positions last season, highlighted the team's efforts to simulate game pressure during practice, preparing Kim for the intensity of Dodger Stadium. Rojas dismissed the idea of competition between him and Kim, underscoring the team's collective goal of success. "He's going to be part of the mix and he's got to believe and he's got to feel like he belongs," Rojas stated. He lauded Kim's willingness to learn and adapt, expressing confidence in Kim's future contributions to the team.

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