Braves Predicted to Trade for Diamondbacks’ Top Prospect Jordan Lawlar if Ha-Seong Kim Leaves in Free Agency
October 13, 2025 | ATLANTA
The Atlanta Braves are entering the 2025–26 offseason with major uncertainty surrounding their infield — and the outcome could hinge on one player: Ha-Seong Kim.
The veteran shortstop, who brought elite defense and consistency to Atlanta’s lineup, is expected to opt out of his $16 million option for 2026 and test a thin free-agent market, leaving the Braves scrambling for answers.
“Because of this thin market, that would incentivize Kim to test free agency,” wrote Sports Illustrated’s Harrison Smajovits. “For that same reason, it’s even more important that the Braves find a way to retain his services.”
If Kim departs, the Braves could find themselves “back to square one,” facing the same offensive gaps that plagued them earlier in the season.
Ha-Seong Kim Expected to Hit Free Agency
According to MLB.com’s Mark Bowman, Kim is expected to decline his 2026 player option and hit the open market, where he will be one of the top available shortstops.
“Kim is expected to decline his $16 million option for the 2026 season and become a commodity on what will be a thin free-agent market for shortstops,” Bowman reported.
While retaining Kim remains Atlanta’s top priority, his growing market value could make negotiations difficult. Multiple teams — including the Giants, Red Sox, and Mariners — are reportedly interested in pursuing the 29-year-old infielder.
Jordan Lawlar Emerges as a Potential Trade Target
If Kim leaves, the Braves could pivot toward a blockbuster trade for Jordan Lawlar, the Arizona Diamondbacks’ top prospect and one of baseball’s most promising young shortstops.
“There could be trade targets that fit the bill for Atlanta, with the Diamondbacks’ Jordan Lawlar being one intriguing option,” wrote HTHB’s Eric Cole. “Kim is not the Braves’ only option this offseason — although he may still be the best one.”
Lawlar, 23, is currently blocked in Arizona’s depth chart by Geraldo Perdomo, leaving limited opportunities for him to play every day. The Braves could capitalize on that logjam with a trade package centered around young pitching or prospect depth.
The move would be bold — but it could also set the franchise up for long-term success. Lawlar brings elite athleticism, defensive range, and developing power, making him a strong fit for Atlanta’s aggressive, high-upside roster strategy.
What It Means for Atlanta’s Offseason Plan
The Braves’ front office, led by GM Alex Anthopoulos, now faces one of its most crucial offseasons in recent memory. If Kim re-signs, Atlanta retains stability. If not, the club must decide between short-term reliability (through a veteran free agent) or long-term upside (via a prospect trade like Lawlar).
Acquiring Lawlar could ultimately prove more beneficial than signing Kim to a multi-year extension, giving Atlanta both cost control and a long-term solution at shortstop.
Still, insiders caution that the decision will depend on who the next Braves manager is — with the team yet to fill its vacant managerial position after Brian Snitker’s retirement.
The Bottom Line
Whether it’s Ha-Seong Kim’s return or a trade for Jordan Lawlar, the Braves’ 2026 roster construction will shape the next phase of Atlanta baseball.
For now, all eyes are on Anthopoulos and the front office to see which direction they take — retain their veteran cornerstone or bet big on the next generation.
