Braves projected to retain former Gold Glove Award winner on short-term deal

Jared Bloom

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Braves projected to retain former Gold Glove Award winner on short-term deal image

At the end of the season, the Atlanta Braves learned that shortstop Ha-Seong Kim would opt out of his $16 million player option for the 2026 season and become a free agent. This changed the club's offseason plans to now fill a hole at shortstop. 

They recently acquired Mauricio Dubon from the Houston Astros as an option, but not one the front office would declare as their starter. They still have time to go out and sign someone on the open market. 

There are not many options on the open market when it comes to shortstops, with Bo Bichette and Ha-Seong Kim leading the way. With a handful of other shortstops left, some teams might have to get creative. 

Braves projected to retain former Gold Glove Award winner on short-term deal

While Kim sits on the open market, the Braves would love to have him back. While he was coming off shoulder surgery, he did well during his limited time there. 

He played in 24 games, hitting.253/.316/.368 with three home runs and 12 runs batted in. More importantly, he was able to give the front office faith that it had a dependable glove at shortstop. 

ESPN's Jeff Passan projects that the Braves will come to terms with the 2023 Gold Glove Award winner on a short-term deal. 

"Another popular hitter: infielder Ha-Seong Kim, who could return to Atlanta – which still needs a shortstop – on a shorter-term deal."

ESPN's Kiley McDaniel projects the slugger to receive a one-year, $16 million contract, which plays up to this projection. 

However, Atlanta is not the only team to watch here. The Pittsburgh Pirates could emerge as a top suitor as they are looking for a temporary bridge at shortstop until Konnor Griffin, Termarr Johnson, or Sammy Stafura can take over. 

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Editorial Team