Braves Eyeing Ha Seong Kim’s Return After Successful Trial

Atlanta, GA – The Atlanta Braves are interested in keeping shortstop Ha Seong Kim after a brief trial this season. Kim was claimed off waivers from the Tampa Bay Rays at the end of August, returning to play after recovering from shoulder surgery.

The Braves assumed the remaining $1.89 million on his contract, an unusual move for a team expected to miss the playoffs. They are hopeful that Kim, who has a $16 million player option for next season, can resolve their longstanding shortstop issue.

Braves president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos confirmed the team’s interest in Kim on Saturday, according to David O'Brien of The Athletic. “Shortstop, starting rotation, and bullpen are the obvious needs this winter,” Anthopoulos said. “We want Kim, and we liked everything about him during his four weeks with the Braves.”

In his time with Atlanta, Kim played 24 games, hitting .253 with three home runs and an OPS+ of 93. Given the struggles of Orlando Arcia and Nick Allen in the past two seasons, Kim’s ability to produce league-average offensive stats would greatly benefit the Braves.

Kim boasts a record as a five-WAR player twice in his career and appears to be a fitting solution for Atlanta as they navigate the competitive shortstop market. His return hinges on whether the Braves can renegotiate terms to keep him from entering free agency.