With a .346 batting average in Triple-A, Kim Hyeseong returns to the MLB, only playing defense in his first game without a plate appearance.

Kim Hyeseong, the Dodgers' Korean infielder who achieved a .346 batting average in the first six Triple-A games, was called up to the majors today following Mookie Betts' placement on the injured list. Yet, during the 8-6 victory over the Nationals, he merely served as a defensive replacement and did not take any at-bats.

During spring training, Kim Hyeseong focused on adjusting his hitting mechanics. He recorded hits in all nine exhibition games, producing a slash line of .407/.488/.519, but still lost the competition for the final bench spot and was sent down to Triple-A at the start of the season.

At that time, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts stated that he hoped Kim would continue refining his hitting approach. Roberts noted that Kim's participation in the World Baseball Classic, which caused him to miss time with the coaching staff, somewhat affected his progress.

In six Triple-A games, Kim Hyeseong posted a .346/.438/.385 batting line over 32 plate appearances. He struck out seven times and drew four walks, but among his nine hits, only one was for extra bases.

Betts, who exited early due to injury yesterday, was placed on the 10-day injured list today with a right oblique strain. The Dodgers decided to promote Kim Hyeseong to serve as an infield backup, possibly even starting at shortstop against right-handed pitchers. Roberts commented, "This demonstrates the advantage of our roster depth, which other teams lack. We can arrange such a left-right combination at shortstop and still feel the matchup isn't too unfavorable."

Today against a left-handed pitcher, the Dodgers started right-handed hitter Miguel Rojas at shortstop and switch-hitter Alex Freeland at second base. When the Dodgers mounted a comeback in the eighth inning, they opted to have Kyle Tucker pinch-hit for Freeland. Kim Hyeseong entered in the ninth inning to defend second base and did not get an opportunity to bat.