Atlanta Braves Bolster Infield with Ha-Seong Kim
The Atlanta Braves, with an eye on strengthening their infield for next season, have claimed infielder Ha-Seong Kim from the Tampa Bay Rays, according to recent reports.
Kim, 29, has a contract that owes him approximately $2 million for the remainder of the 2025 season and another $16 million in 2026.
The Braves, despite a season with ups and downs, with a record of 62-75 before Labor Day, hope to compete next year and are willing to make financial commitments to close the gap.
The team has had significant problems at shortstop, with an OPS of .525, the worst in the league. Orlando Arcia was released at the end of May and Nick Allen has struggled offensively.
Second baseman Ozzie Albies, a three-time All-Star, is in the midst of his worst offensive season, with a batting average of .234/.303/.350, 13 home runs, and 12 stolen bases in 137 games. The Braves have $7 million club options on Albies’ contract after this season.
Kim can opt out of his contract at the end of the World Series, but it is unlikely due to his difficulties after shoulder surgery.
Kim, a right-handed hitter who can play three infield positions, established himself as a first-rate defender at shortstop and as a fan favorite while playing with the San Diego Padres. From 2022 to 2024, Kim batted .250/.336/.385 and accumulated 13 wins above replacement, according to Baseball-Reference.
In his first season with the Rays, Kim batted .214/.290/.321 in 24 games.
To make room on the roster, the Braves transferred Austin Riley to the 60-day injured list.
