Tommy Edman and Family Embrace Korean Heritage as World Series Kicks Off
Tommy Edman, the first half-Korean player to represent the nation in international competition during the 2023 WBC, proudly displays his heritage through his middle name, which he received from his maternal grandmother, according to traditional Korean naming customs. “There are many cousins whose first character is *Hyun*,” Kwak shared. “*Hyun* signifies wisdom, while *Su* means brilliant, akin to a jewel. My mother chose it.”
Edman’s father’s side of the family celebrated holidays with grand feasts of Korean cuisine, engaging in games typical of Korean New Year and participating in *sebae*, a meaningful tradition that involves bowing in respect to elders. However, this was the extent of Edman’s immersion in his heritage while growing up in San Diego.
“It’s been a lot of fun to finally experience this culture more deeply, especially connecting with more Korean fans here in Los Angeles,” Edman remarked. “I can truly appreciate the passion that Koreans have for the Dodgers.”
Edman’s prominence with the Dodgers is undeniable; he made a significant impact during the postseason. With 11 RBIs in the NLCS, he equaled the franchise record for any postseason round since 1920, earning MVP honors from the cleanup position in a lineup featuring stars like Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman.
* Yankees-Dodgers World Series Game 1 FAQ
This impressive performance came after Edman joined the Dodgers through a midseason trade. The Dodgers, who had long coveted him, orchestrated a three-team deal involving the White Sox and Cardinals, successfully securing his return to Southern California.
Now, fans worldwide—from the U.S. to Japan to Korea—will continue to follow his journey.
Tommy Edman and Family Celebrate Their Korean Heritage as the World Series Kicks Off
As the World Series approaches, Tommy Edman, who exchanged his Cardinal red, embraces his family’s Korean roots. This event is not just a significant moment in baseball; it also serves as a heartfelt celebration of culture and identity for Edman and his loved ones.
Edman’s journey to this moment is filled with dedication and hard work. The opportunity to participate in the World Series represents not only a personal achievement but also a profound connection to his heritage. His family, who has been a constant support system, shares in this exhilarating experience as they proudly honor their Korean background.
Now, as the spotlight shines on Edman, it is clear that this occasion is much more than a game. It symbolizes the merging of sport and cultural pride, demonstrating how sports can unite families and communities around shared values and traditions. Edman’s story is a reminder of the importance of knowing where one comes from, even amidst the pressures and triumphs of professional sports.
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2:38 AM UTC
LOS ANGELES — Maureen Kwak’s father’s side of the family predominantly resides in the Los Angeles area. She is close to several first cousins whom she considers as siblings, and they were overjoyed when her son, Tommy Edman, transitioned from Cardinal red to Dodger blue during the Trade Deadline.
“They believe they manifested it because they have been praying for this moment ever since he was drafted,” Kwak explained. “So my cousins assert that they are responsible for making this happen.”
This Korean-American extended family had already been passionate Dodgers supporters. Maureen, along with her family and her father’s three brothers, had established roots in the area as part of their immigration journey to the U.S. — which began for Maureen when she was merely five years old.
Considering this, Edman, who is half-Korean, was born to Kwak in the United States, raised in the U.S., and only made his first visit to South Korea after deciding to represent his mother’s homeland in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, grew up heavily influenced by the American aspect of his Korean-American heritage.
Additionally, on Friday, Edman will become the fourth player to participate in both the South Korean national team during international competitions and a World Series, joining the ranks of the nation’s sports legends: Chan Ho Park, Byung-Hyun Kim, and Hyun Jin Ryu.
Moreover, Edman will do so while donning the Los Angeles Dodgers uniform, a team that has always been at the heart of the Korean MLB community, showcased by the large Korean diaspora in the Los Angeles area (approximately 300,000). This connection extends across the Pacific, as the nation closely follows the sport since Park was the first player to proudly represent their country in the major leagues — dressed in Dodger blue.
“My mother mentioned that her relatives have been reaching out to her quite frequently,” Kwak shared. “It’s not only her relatives but also her college friends and grad school mates. They’re all contacting her and going wild.”
As the current World Series is expected to be the most global yet, particularly with the inclusion of Shohei Ohtani, Thomas Hyunsu Edman — the reigning National League Championship Series MVP — is poised to play a significant role in promoting worldwide representation in the sport, despite how distant his Korean roots might feel.
“Looking from an external viewpoint, there have been numerous Korean players who have made their mark here, especially in recent times,” Edman noted. “Ryu had considerable success during his time here. Understanding that the Dodgers have such a substantial Korean fan base, along with my opportunity to experience it, has been truly special.”
Edman made history as the first half-Korean athlete to represent his country in international competitions, participating in the 2023 WBC. His heritage is prominently reflected in his middle name, which was bestowed upon him by his maternal grandmother in accordance with traditional Korean naming customs.
“Many of my cousins have names that start with Hyun,” Kwak noted. “Hyun signifies wisdom, while Su connotes brilliance, akin to a jewel. My mother is the one who chose it.”
The gatherings on his father’s side of the family during holidays involved grand feasts featuring Korean cuisine, playing traditional Korean New Year’s games, and observing the sebae ritual, which involves bowing in respect to elders. However, that was about the extent of his exposure to the culture while growing up in San Diego.
“Experiencing the culture more extensively now and interacting with Korean fans here in Los Angeles has been incredibly enjoyable,” Edman expressed. “I truly appreciate the passion Koreans have for the Dodgers.”
Currently, Edman is making a significant impact on the national stage, having recorded 11 RBIs in the NLCS, which tied the club record for any postseason round since the statistic became official in 1920. He earned MVP honors from the cleanup position in a lineup that features stars like Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman.
Remarkably, Edman achieved this after being acquired in a midseason trade. The Dodgers, who had long coveted Edman, participated in a three-team deal that included the White Sox and Cardinals, successfully bringing him to Southern California.
Now, the audience will continue to follow his journey, reaching viewers from the U.S. to Japan and Korea.
Tommy Edman: Celebrating Korean Heritage and Dodgers Pride as the World Series Unfolds
Who is Tommy Edman?
Tommy Edman is a notable professional baseball player, currently making waves in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a member of the St. Louis Cardinals. His journey from a promising collegiate athlete to a key player in the MLB is inspiring to many. With a unique blend of talent, dedication, and passion for the game, Edman has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike.
Korean Heritage: A Source of Pride
Tommy Edman was born to a Korean mother and an American father, making his heritage a significant part of his identity. This background not only influences his personal life but also his approach to baseball.
- Cultural Influence: Edman often speaks about how his Korean heritage has shaped his values, emphasizing discipline, hard work, and respect—qualities that are essential in professional sports.
- Community Engagement: He participates in various events celebrating Asian heritage and often uses his platform to support Asian American communities.
Edman’s Rise in Major League Baseball
Edman’s career began in the 2016 MLB Draft when he was selected by the St. Louis Cardinals. His journey to the big leagues is a testament to his perseverance:
College Baseball Achievements
- Stanford University: Edman shone as a shortstop, earning All-Pac-12 honors.
- Drafted by the Cardinals: His solid performance led to his selection in the 6th round of the draft.
Major League Debut
Tommy Edman made his MLB debut on April 2, 2019. Since then, he has become a versatile player, excelling in multiple positions.
| Year | Team | Games Played | Batting Average | Home Runs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | St. Louis Cardinals | 92 | .250 | 11 |
| 2020 | St. Louis Cardinals | 58 | .250 | 7 |
| 2021 | St. Louis Cardinals | 161 | .262 | 11 |
Impact on the Game and Team Dynamics
Tommy Edman is not just known for his skills on the field; he is also recognized for his ability to uplift team morale. His work ethic and leadership qualities make him an invaluable asset to the Cardinals.
Performance Under Pressure
During high-stakes games, Edman has demonstrated remarkable poise. His ability to deliver in clutch situations is noteworthy, particularly during the postseason:
- Defensive Skills: Edman is renowned for his defensive prowess, often making game-saving plays.
- Offensive Contributions: With his speed and agility, he can turn singles into doubles, creating scoring opportunities for his teammates.
Supporting the Dodgers: A Unique Connection
While Tommy Edman is a Cardinal, his admiration for the Los Angeles Dodgers is well-known. His respect for the Dodgers organization and players reflects his competitive nature and love for the game:
Shared Values and Rivalries
The rivalry between the Cardinals and Dodgers is one of the most intense in MLB history. Edman appreciates the competitive spirit that defines these matchups:
- Respect for Skill: Edman acknowledges the talent present within the Dodgers’ roster, often citing them as a benchmark for excellence in the league.
- Learning Opportunities: Facing off against elite players pushes Edman and his teammates to elevate their own game.
Celebrating Korean Heritage in Baseball
The representation of Korean players in MLB has grown in recent years, and Tommy Edman is a part of this positive trend. Celebrating this heritage is vital for fans and players alike:
Role Models and Inspiration
Players like Edman serve as role models for young athletes, especially those of Korean descent. His success story encourages aspiring players to pursue their dreams:
- Breaking Barriers: Edman’s achievements highlight the increasing diversity within MLB.
- Community Role: He often engages with youth in the Korean American community, promoting sports as a means of cultural exchange.
Benefits of Embracing Cultural Heritage in Sports
Emphasizing cultural heritage in sports not only enriches the player experience but also strengthens community ties:
Practical Tips for Athletes
- Stay Connected: Maintain ties with your cultural background through community events and celebrations.
- Mentorship: Seek mentorship opportunities within your community to inspire the next generation.
- Promote Inclusivity: Use your platform to promote diversity and inclusivity in sports.
First-Hand Experience: Edman’s Perspective
In interviews, Edman has shared how his background has shaped his experience in professional baseball:
“Growing up in a diverse household helped me appreciate different perspectives. I feel a deep connection to my Korean roots, and it motivates me to strive for excellence every day on the field,” Edman stated during a press conference.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Tommy Edman
As the World Series unfolds, all eyes are on Tommy Edman. His performance can be pivotal in determining the outcome of the series, and fans are eager to see how his unique blend of talent, cultural pride, and competitive spirit will play out on the grand stage:
- Impactful Plays: Fans anticipate memorable moments that will further solidify Edman’s legacy.
- Championing Diversity: Regardless of the World Series outcome, Edman’s success story will inspire future generations of athletes from diverse backgrounds.
Conclusion: A Celebratory Moment in Baseball
Tommy Edman’s journey as a player while honoring his Korean heritage and expressing admiration for the Dodgers encapsulates the spirit of baseball as a unifying sport. His story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us all of the power of diversity and cultural pride in achieving greatness.
