Kim Ha-seong (26, San Diego Padres) outshined Major League Baseball (MLB) icon Shohei Ohtani (Los Angeles Angels). He made a series of super plays that raised hopes of becoming the first Korean major leaguer to win a Gold Glove.

Kim Ha-seong started at first base and second base for the 2023 MLB Angels at Petco Park in San Diego, California, U.S.A., on May 5 (KST), and led his team to an 8-5 victory over the Angels.

It was Kim’s first two-hit game against Ohtani since joining the MLB. Kim grounded out in the first two at-bats, but in the third inning of the fifth game, he took a 153 km/h fastball to left field. Earlier, he induced a fake bunt to get the opposing catcher Foyle.스포츠토토

Kim tried to rattle Ohtani by stealing second on the ensuing play. However, he failed to make the catcher’s throw. The disappointment came in the seventh inning. Saguaro stole his 14th base of the season.

Ohtani celebrated his birthday that day. He struggled with a blister on his finger (right middle finger) and was unable to perform at his best.

The star of the game was undoubtedly Kim Ha-seong. The defensive prowess that earned him three Gold Glove finalists at shortstop in the National League (NL) last season (2022) was on full display today.

First, in the top of the fourth inning, runners on first and second. San Diego pitcher Joe Musgrove gave up a hard hit to right field to Angels hitter Mike Moustakas. Mustachus is a powerful hitter who has hit over 30 home runs in two seasons.

First, San Diego first baseman Jake Cronenwirth flew out to make a diving catch. The ball hit his glove and traveled halfway between first and second base. With his glove in a difficult position to extend, he tried to make a bare-handed catch. He fumbled once, but then made a quick throw to first base and eventually threw out Mustachus at the plate. A roar went up in Petco Park.

Kim got the final out of the game. In the top of the ninth inning, San Diego led 8-5 with two outs. With the momentum on their side, a single run could have changed the game.

San Diego closer Josh Hader gave up an infield single to Taylor Ward. It had a lot of body time, but it was dropped exquisitely into no man’s land. Kim quickly rushed to the plate, grabbed the one-base hit and made a running throw to get the out. The ball deflected slightly when it first hit the ground, but Kim was quick enough to make the catch. It was a close call, but Kim’s throw was clearly faster. The Angels tried to get a video review, but it didn’t change the outcome.

Bare-handed catch. This play is often referred to as a “bear hand” by MLB commentators. It’s not as common in the KBO.

Kim wasn’t trying to make a bare-handed catch because he had big hands or good hands. His body reacted instantaneously when he realized he couldn’t get a good grip on the ball due to his dynamic, which makes it all the more amazing. Local media and San Diego coach Val Melvin were impressed.

Before the first half was over, Kim had 10 home runs, two shy of his career high. His defense and fielding are also hot. Kim is increasing his value.