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- MLB. Kim Hye-seong's breakout puts Dodgers in tough spot as stars near return
The Los Angeles Dodgers are going through a great moment in the season, remaining one of the most solid teams in the league, even with an ever-growing injured list. Despite the physical setbacks, the Los Angeles team has managed to remain competitive thanks to the contribution of emerging figures and a versatile squad.
Among the good news is that two key offensive players, Teoscar Hernandez and Tommy Edman, are in advanced stages of recovery and could return to action soon. Both players had shown outstanding performance before being sidelined by physical ailments, which keeps expectations high for their return.
Teoscar and Edman close to return, but will have to wait
While it was expected that their injuries were not serious, Hernandez and Edman have taken longer than expected to return to the diamond. According to recent reports, both will remain out over the weekend, although the outlook is positive: Edman will not need a formal rehabilitation process, while Hernandez will have to complete an assignment before his reactivation.
The wait has generated some anxiety among fans, but also optimism, considering what both bring to the team. Their return will mean significant adjustments to the lineup, as they are two reliable bats that could bolster an offense that, while potent, has had its ups and downs in some positions.
Kim Hye-seong's emergence complicates the picture
In the midst of the absences, the player who has taken advantage of his opportunity to the fullest is Kim Hye-seong. The South Korean infielder, who signed a three-year, $12.5 million contract, has surprised everyone with his explosive performance: he is batting .452 with a 1.066 slugging percentage in just 31 at-bats, with five RBIs and three stolen bases
Kim's impact has been so strong that his continuity in the team becomes a dilemma for management. With the impending return of Edman and Hernandez, the coaching staff, led by Dave Roberts, will have to make difficult decisions to adjust the 40-man roster. While Kim lacks the experience of his teammates, his current level is hard to ignore.
As the Dodgers prepare for a demanding second half, they will need to balance talent, experience and current performance. Established figures such as Mookie Betts, Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman will continue to lead the offense, but the depth of the team forces roles to be defined precisely.