Last offseason, Ha-Seong Kim hit free agency after four seasons with the San Diego Padres and went on to sign a two-year, $29 million deal with the Tampa Bay Rays, which included a player option for 2026.
His start in Tampa Bay was sluggish, in part because of lingering effects from offseason shoulder surgery. Additional back and calf problems further limited his performance.
By September, the Rays placed Kim on waivers, and the Atlanta Braves quickly claimed him. Once in Atlanta, he appeared to regain his form, particularly at the plate, stringing together a 10-game hitting streak.
Ha-Seong Kim’s contract opt-out forces Braves to face infield questions
Shortstop was a problem spot for the Braves for most of the season. They began the year with Orlando Arcia, but his struggles led to his release in May.
Nick Allen took over and provided better defense, though his offensive production remained limited. When Atlanta later acquired Ha-Seong Kim, it finally appeared they had solved their shortstop issue — but they may need a backup plan if Kim decides to opt out.
Kim recently returned to Korea for the offseason and was asked about his future while at the airport. Speaking to Yoon Wook-jae of Naver, he offered a cautious response:
“I don’t know,” Kim said when asked about his opt-out decision. “I’ll have to talk with my agent — I really don’t know anything about my future.”
Should Kim choose to opt out, the free-agent market for shortstops will be thin. Bo Bichette is expected to be one of the top names available, along with Trevor Story if he also opts out. Beyond that, the Braves’ best solution might come from within the organization.
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