Manager Dave Roberts publicly criticizes Kim following a controversial game decision and lineup change.
Category: Sports
In a surprising turn of events, LA Dodgers infielder Kim Hyesung has been excluded from the starting lineup for the team's first home game against the New York Mets on April 14, 2026, following a controversial incident during a recent game. The decision has drawn scrutiny, particularly after Dodgers manager Dave Roberts publicly criticized Kim for his performance during the previous match against the Texas Rangers.
On April 13, Kim, playing as the ninth batter and shortstop, recorded no hits in two at-bats and struck out once. The incident that led to his exclusion occurred during the third inning when Kim attempted to challenge a strike call using the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) challenge system. Facing Texas pitcher Jacob deGrom, Kim was called out on strikes after a low slider, which he believed was a ball. His challenge was unsuccessful, as the ruling was confirmed, resulting in the Dodgers losing one of their two available challenge opportunities for the game.
Roberts did not hold back in his assessment of Kim's decision to challenge the call, stating, "That was a poor judgment call in that situation." This public rebuke has led to speculation about Kim's standing with the team, especially since he had been performing well prior to this incident. In the six games he played this season, Kim boasted a batting average of .308, with four hits in 13 at-bats, one run batted in, and three runs scored.
As the Dodgers prepared to face the Mets, who are struggling at the bottom of the National League East with a record of 7-9, the Dodgers were riding high with an 11-4 record, placing them at the top of the National League West. In light of the left-handed pitcher David Peterson starting for the Mets, Roberts opted to replace Kim with Miguel Rojas at shortstop, a decision that some analysts viewed as a strategic move rather than a punitive one.
Notably, Kim had previously shown promise against left-handed pitchers, having recorded one hit and one walk in three at-bats against them this season. His exclusion from the lineup has sparked discussions among fans and analysts alike, with some outlets like CBS Sports and *Sports Illustrated* deeming it a routine rest day for the young player rather than a consequence of his recent challenge failure.
As the Dodgers aim to maintain their winning momentum, the focus will inevitably shift back to Kim and how he responds to this setback. The team’s performance against the Mets and Kim's potential return to the lineup will be closely watched. With the Dodgers looking to solidify their lead in the division, every player's contribution is deemed valuable, and Kim's ability to rebound from this incident will be key.
In the broader scope of the season, Kim's performance will be examined for his batting skills and for how he handles the pressure of being in the major leagues. His experience with the ABS challenge could serve as a learning opportunity, highlighting the importance of decision-making under pressure. As the Dodgers continue their campaign, the relationship between Kim and Roberts will also be a narrative to follow, as both parties navigate the challenges of a long MLB season.
Looking ahead, the Dodgers will face the Mets again in the following games, and it how Kim will fit into the lineup moving forward. Will he return stronger, having learned from his recent misstep? as the season progresses.