Seoul, November 6 (Yonhap) – A momentous occasion in Major League Baseball (MLB) history occurred as Kim Ha-Seong of the San Diego Padres became the first South Korean player to clinch a prestigious Gold Glove award. This historic announcement was made by MLB on Sunday, local time in the United States.
Kim secured the National League Gold Glove in the utility category. It’s worth noting that MLB introduced this category just last year to recognize players who display remarkable defensive versatility.
The South Korean infielder faced stiff competition for this monumental award, as he outperformed the likes of Mookie Betts from the Los Angeles Dodgers and Tommy Edman of the St. Louis Cardinals. Tommy Edman, a half-Korean player, was previously Kim’s double-play partner at the World Baseball Classic held in March.
Notably, Edman received the 2021 NL Gold Glove at second base, while Mookie Betts has six Gold Gloves under his belt, primarily in the correct field position.
Kim Ha-seong’s historic achievement resonates not only with the South Korean baseball community but also with baseball enthusiasts worldwide. This marks a significant milestone in the career of an outstanding player who has now etched his name in the annals of MLB history as the first South Korean to receive this prestigious award.
With this extraordinary accomplishment, Kim Ha-seong’s influence and significance in the MLB continue to grow, and his legacy will inspire future generations of South Korean baseball talent aspiring to make their mark on the international stage.
