Dave Roberts provides simple explanation for Alex Freeland option Dodgers fans will love

Mookie Betts came back from his rehab assignment sooner than anyone expected, which expedited the Dodgers' decision-making on the longstanding Alex Freeland vs. Hyeseong Kim dilemma. They could've gone the easy route and DFA'ed Santiago Espinal, but for some reason decided against.

They ended up sticking with Kim while Freeland got the bump back down to Triple-A which, if fans had their way, would've been the route the Dodgers took out of spring training.

It was similarly clear to fans which way the Dodgers should go this time around, too, but the Dodgers have been bullish on Freeland, as they tend to be with select few players who typically give fans migraines.

But Dave Roberts had a simple explanation as to why the Dodgers chose Kim this time. "I think what it came down to is, Hyeseong’s performed better," he said.

This was similarly true in spring training, but the Dodgers picked out the one thing they liked about Freeland and latched onto it fiercely. They loved his plate discipline, but that totally disappeared when he got to the majors. Kim's defensive versatility probably helped, too, but he's just been the better hitter, plain and simple.

Dave Roberts had a no-nonsense response to questions on Dodgers' decision to keep Hyeseong Kim over Alex Freeland

Kim hasn't looked good in the days since the roster move but, to be fair, neither has almost anyone else in the Dodgers' offense. Freeland has yet to play since returning to Oklahoma City.

Kiké Hernández will be the next player to come off of the IL, which will signal the end of Espinal's time with the club. Tommy Edman is now on the 60-day IL, but that doesn't really say much about his progress or timeline. The Dodgers have declined to provide many updates on him, other than Roberts saying he's on a "slow program."

Whenever he does come back — if he does come back — Kim could join Freeland, though Alex Call could also be at risk.

Since we have less than zero idea when that'll be, we can assume Kim will end up getting a long runway, though he'll have to continue to perform if he wants to avoid another switch-up. After all, he still has options, too, and it would be easy enough for the Dodgers to make the swap.

For now, Dodgers fans have been vindicated. It's up to Kim to keep proving us right.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow