ATLANTA, GA — The Atlanta Braves’ need for a reliable everyday shortstop just became more urgent. As anticipated by some insiders, Gold Glove winner Ha-Seong Kim has officially exercised the opt-out clause in his contract, foregoing a guaranteed $16 million salary for the 2026 season to test the open market.
This move instantly makes Kim one of the top available shortstops in what is widely considered a weak free agency class at the position.
Kim’s 2025 Rollercoaster
Kim’s decision is a calculated gamble after an injury-plagued and statistically uneven 2025 season that saw him switch teams mid-year.
| Team | Games Played (2025) | AVG | OPS+ | HR | Notes |
| Tampa Bay Rays | 24 | .214 | 72 | 2 | Struggled after shoulder injury rehab. |
| Atlanta Braves | 24 | .253 | 93 | 3 | Improved performance post-waiver claim; defensive excellence. |
| Total 2025 | 48 | .234 | 83 | 5 | Limited playing time due to injury. |
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The move to Atlanta in September provided a crucial stock boost. Although his Braves’ performance was only slightly below league-average offensively (93 OPS+), his defense remained elite, and his three home runs were the only ones hit by a Braves shortstop all season—a glaring indicator of the team’s offensive woes at the position.
The Shortstop Market: Kim’s Opportunity
Kim’s agent, Scott Boras, will capitalize on the scarcity of high-caliber middle infielders this offseason. The market landscape is defined by:
- Bo Bichette (Toronto Blue Jays): The likely headliner, though he is facing questions about his long-term viability at shortstop after a late-season injury and subsequent use at second base. His offensive upside will command a massive contract.
- Ha-Seong Kim: A proven Gold Glove winner and a highly versatile infielder (SS, 2B, 3B). His consistent defensive value and above-average on-base skills make him arguably the best pure shortstop available for teams prioritizing defense.
- Isiah Kiner-Falefa: Mentioned as the “next best” after Kim, which further underscores the thin market.
By opting out, Kim is betting he can secure a multi-year deal, likely in the 3-4 year, $50M-$85M range, which would easily top the $16 million he walked away from.
For the Braves, the hope now shifts from a guaranteed 2026 option to a free-agent pursuit, competing with other teams for the services of a player they desperately need for infield depth and stability.
With Ha-Seong Kim now on the market, what kind of multi-year contract (years and average annual value) do you predict he will sign this offseason?
