Braves Face Offseason Infield Questions After Contract Twist

Highlights

• Ha-Seong Kim stayed cautious when asked about his contract opt-out
  
• Shoulder surgery and midseason waiver made 2025 a turbulent year
  
• Trade to Atlanta offered stability and a second chance
  
  

Ha-Seong Kim returned home this week with more questions than answers about his future. Landing at Incheon International Airport on October 9, the Korean infielder met with reporters and offered only caution when pressed on whether he would exercise his opt-out or return to the Atlanta Braves.

“I need more time,” he told reporter Yoon Wook-jae of Naver, via Lindsay Crosby of the Braves Today podcast. 

A Turbulent 2025

Kim entered free agency last winter and signed a two-year, $29 million deal with the Tampa Bay Rays. What looked like a steady opportunity quickly unraveled. After shoulder surgery and months of rehab, he rejoined the club in July but never found his form. 

In 24 games with Tampa Bay, he hit .214 with two home runs, five RBIs, and a .612 OPS.

By September, the Rays had moved on, placing him on waivers. That’s when the Atlanta Braves claimed him.

A Blessing in Disguise

The trade was a reset. “It turned out to be a blessing in disguise,” Kim admitted. His defense and speed gave Atlanta a late-season spark, while the Braves praised his professionalism and steady clubhouse presence.

Though the numbers remained modest, his role expanded, and Atlanta’s postseason berth gave Kim the chance to contribute in meaningful games again.

From KBO Standout to MLB Aspirant

Kim began his pro career in South Korea, debuting in the KBO in 2014 with the Nexen Heroes (later Kiwoom).Over his KBO tenure, he posted a solid batting average (~.294) and became a multi-time Golden Glove winner (2018–2020).He was posted to MLB and signed with the Padres at the end of 2020, transitioning to a new stage.

In the U.S., he steadily carved a niche: offense that was good, if not elite, but defense and versatility that made him valuable. In 2023, he became the first Asian-born infielder to win a Gold Glove.That award underscored what scouts always saw — his glove can carry him while the bat catches up.

What Comes Next

The looming question is whether Kim will opt out of his deal and test the market again. 

The Braves have not publicly committed to extending him, but GM Alex Anthopoulos said retaining him or landing another top-line shortstop is a priority. 

At 29, Kim is entering what should be his prime. The uncertainty lies in whether teams will see him as an everyday player or a valuable utility piece. Atlanta, still balancing roster decisions after its own playoff exit, may hold the key to his future.