What happened: Pinch-hitting in a 5-5 ninth inning, Kim lined the eighth pitch to left to complete a 6-5 win. He worked a full count and fouled off three straight fastballs before the game-winning hit.
Why it matters: Kim had recently shifted to a backup role after entering the game 5-for-76 this season. The victory gave his club a 2-0 lead in the series.
By the numbers: Kim is 6-for-77 (.078) with five RBIs across 32 games in 2026. All six hits are singles, leaving him with a .252 OPS.
What to watch: Kim's role in the series finale will show whether the decisive hit earns him another opportunity.