Key Highlights
- Ha-Seong Kim opts out of his deal with the Atlanta Braves.
- Kim’s remaining 2025 salary is $16 million.
- The Braves claimed Kim off waivers from the Tampa Bay Rays in September.
- Kim had a .234/.304/.345 batting line for the Braves in 24 games.
Ha-Seong Kim’s Decision to Opt Out of Atlanta Braves Deal
Atlanta Braves middle infielder Ha-Seong Kim has opted out of his contract, passing on a $16 million salary that would have guaranteed him for the remainder of the 2025 season. The decision is a notable development in the baseball world, coming as the team was hopeful to secure their starting shortstop for the upcoming 2026 campaign.
Background and Context
The Braves acquired Kim from the Tampa Bay Rays at the beginning of September through a waiver claim. Despite not being competitive contenders themselves, the club aimed to integrate Kim into the organization with hopes that his presence would provide an advantage even if he were to return to free agency. The acquisition came with a cost; the Braves took on the remaining $2 million of Kim’s 2025 salary for the final month of what turned out to be a lost season.
Performance and Rehabilitation
Kim’s performance in Atlanta was modest but promising, playing 24 games with a .253/.316/.368 batting line. His stint included a notable 10-game hit streak during the middle of September. However, his season was cut short by injuries, particularly a labrum tear in his right shoulder that required surgery and led to the Padres declining to issue him a qualifying offer.
Kim signed with the Rays on a two-year deal, ensuring $29 million and allowing him to re-enter free agency after one year.
His rehab from the shoulder surgery extended into July, during which he battled lower back issues, leading to multiple trips to the injured list. Despite these setbacks, his 24-game stint with the Rays yielded a .214/.290/.321 batting average. The brief time in Tampa Bay was insufficient for Kim to maximize the nearly $11 million on their part.
Future Outlook and Free Agency
Kim’s camp believes he can find a multi-year contract that is more favorable than his $16 million option, especially considering the lack of middle infield alternatives in free agency. The 2025 season was marked by significant questions about Kim’s marketability due to his injury history and limited success with the Rays.
The absence of Trevor Story from opting out of his remaining two years and $55 million deal with the Boston Red Sox could position Kim as a prime free agent shortstop, potentially attracting interest from teams like the San Francisco Giants, Detroit Tigers, Kansas City Royals, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Milwaukee Brewers. His previous experience with an opt-out clause in his Rays contract might influence negotiations for similar terms.
The Atlanta Braves will certainly attempt to re-sign Kim but face competition from other organizations keen on bolstering their middle infield depth.
