Kim appeared as an option on MLBTR’s list of 60-day IL candidates, although he seemed more of a long shot. Atlanta will likely do what it can to avoid that move if there’s any chance Kim could be back at the beginning of the timeline. Anthopoulos’ recent update makes a 60-day IL placement even more unlikely.
The Braves picked Kim off waivers from Tampa Bay late last season, with the Rays looking to avoid the shortstop’s $16 million player option. Atlanta was unable to get Kim back on the player option, but did convince him to sign for an additional $4 million as a free agent. He would return as the club’s starting shortstop.
Kim delivered solid production in his final three seasons in San Diego, including a 17-home run, 38-steal season in 2023. He also earned a Gold Glove award that year. Kim then landed in Tampa Bay as a free agent. The Rays gave him a two-year, $29 million deal with an opt-out, despite the fact that Kim was recovering from right shoulder surgery. He played only 24 games with the team.
Atlanta will likely merge the shortstop position until Kim is healthy. The team acted quickly after the news broke and signed Utilityman Jorge Mateo the next day. Mateo has developed well defensively in his six-year career, but he has spent most of his time at shortstop (294 appearances). The Braves acquired Mauricio Dubon in a trade with the Astros. Nick AllenAtlanta’s top shortstop last season went the other way in the deal. Dubón is a candidate for the position. The Braves have also reacquired Brett wise as extra depth in the field.
Led by the defensive Allen, the Braves finished last in OPS at shortstop in 2025. Allen hit .530 in 408 plate appearances. Orlando Arcia, Vidal BrujanAnd Luke Williams were even worse. Kim averaged .253/.316/.368 in twenty games with Atlanta.
Photo courtesy of Jordan Godfree, Imagn Images
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