The Atlanta Braves entered the offseason with a clear directive: find a reliable, two-way shortstop who can anchor the infield defensively and offer more than a whisper of production at the plate. For a brief window, it looked like they had the upper hand. They had claimed Ha-Seong Kim off waivers in early September, granting them an exclusive negotiating window. But that window just slammed shut.
Kim Hits Open Market After Opt-Out, Braves Lose Exclusive Rights
Kim, 30, officially became a free agent after opting out of a $16 million option for the 2026 season—a move that reshapes the shortstop market and puts the Braves squarely in competition with deeper-pocketed teams. Though his recent injury history includes shoulder surgery and nagging back discomfort that limited him this past season, Kim’s defensive prowess and overall value on the field make him a highly desirable asset.
It’s easy to forget that just two seasons ago, Kim was worth 5.4 WAR, backed by 17 home runs, a .749 OPS, and a Gold Glove—an exceptional combination of fielding excellence and offensive reliability. Even in a more modest 2024, he posted a .700 OPS before injuries cut his season short. His track record across multiple infield positions, particularly at shortstop and second base, increases his appeal in a free-agent class lacking depth at the position.
Offensive Gaps at Short Highlight Braves’ Urgency
The Braves do have internal options, but they come with caveats. Nick Allen delivered elite defense, but his .535 OPS simply isn’t viable for a team with postseason ambitions. The other names being floated—like Anthony Volpe—represent riskier bets. Volpe’s back-to-back 3+ bWAR seasons suggest upside, but his inconsistencies have made the Yankees think twice, especially if they’re tempted to chase Kim themselves.
Bo Bichette may offer a more potent bat, but with a -10 fielding run value in 2025, his defense casts a long shadow. And that’s where Kim’s agent, Scott Boras, seizes his leverage. A versatile infielder with international experience, a strong defensive pedigree, and enough pop in his bat to hold down the middle of the order? That profile could easily command a multi-year deal worth over $20 million annually—especially in a market thin on premium shortstop talent.
Yankees Lurking as Key Threat in Kim Sweepstakes
The Braves had hoped a brief taste of postseason culture and a winning clubhouse might tip Kim in their favor. But now that he’s officially a free agent, it’s a race—and Atlanta is no longer alone at the starting line.
