Atlanta, GA, October 5, 2025
News Summary
The Atlanta Braves are prioritizing the retention of shortstop Ha-Seong Kim as part of their offseason strategy to improve for the upcoming season. General Manager Alex Anthopoulos confirmed their focus on Kim, who has a $16 million player option for 2026. The team is hoping he will exercise this option to help stabilize the shortstop position, which has struggled in recent years. Additionally, the Braves aim to enhance their bullpen and starting rotation. Management is carefully evaluating Kim’s past success while looking to rebuild their roster for future performance.
Atlanta
The Atlanta Braves are strategically planning their offseason with a significant focus on retaining shortstop Ha-Seong Kim, as confirmed by Alex Anthopoulos, the team’s President of Baseball Operations and General Manager, during a recent press conference. The team is looking to enhance its performance for the 2026 season, particularly after a disappointing run in 2025 where the shortstop position ranked last in Major League Baseball (MLB) in OPS.
Kim, who was acquired via waivers from the Tampa Bay Rays, has drawn the team’s attention due to his potential. He has a player option worth $16 million for the 2026 season, and the Braves are optimistic that he will choose to exercise this option. The franchise considers Kim’s retention vital for stabilizing a position that has been problematic for the past two seasons.
In addition to shortstop, the Braves also intend to bolster their bullpen and starting rotation as they prepare for the upcoming season. Anthopoulos indicated that the team had explored acquiring starters previously but has prioritized addressing shortstop as their main offseason goal.
The future conversations regarding Kim’s status with the Braves are expected to take place after the conclusion of the World Series. The Braves’ management has high regard for Kim, who during his time with Atlanta appeared in 24 games, achieved a .253 batting average, hit three home runs, and posted an OPS+ of 93.
The potential retention of Kim contrasts with the team’s current stance on right-handed hitting outfielders, as Anthopoulos clarified that those positions are not a focus at this moment. The team is looking to build a strong foundation for future success, recognizing that securing an accomplished shortstop is a critical step in their short- and long-term plans.
Additionally, the Braves underwent an offseason house-cleaning effort, which involved removing five players from the big league roster as part of their strategy to reconfigure the team’s composition. The franchise is carefully evaluating Kim’s past successes and recent performances to ensure that he becomes a significant asset moving forward.
Despite his recent contributions, there is speculation regarding whether Kim will accept the player option, as his performance may make him attractive on the open market. The market for shortstops in free agency is limited. This situation could influence his decision regarding his contract option.
Overall, the Braves are committed to stabilizing their shortstop position and enhancing their overall team performance as they approach the 2026 season.
FAQ
What is the Atlanta Braves’ primary focus for the offseason?
The primary focus for the Atlanta Braves’ offseason is on retaining shortstop Ha-Seong Kim and enhancing their overall team performance for the 2026 season.
What are the Braves’ plans regarding Ha-Seong Kim?
The Braves confirmed their intent to retain Ha-Seong Kim, who has a $16 million player option for 2026, and they are hopeful he will exercise it.
How did Ha-Seong Kim perform with the Braves?
Ha-Seong Kim played 24 games for the Braves, posting a .253 batting average with three home runs and an OPS+ of 93.
What other areas is the Braves management looking to improve?
Aside from the shortstop position, the Braves are also focusing on strengthening their bullpen and starting rotation.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Retaining shortstop Ha-Seong Kim for the 2026 season. |
| Player Option | Kim has a $16 million option for 2026, which the team hopes he will exercise. |
| Recent Performance | Kim had a .253 batting average and three home runs during his time with the Braves. |
| Team Goals | Enhance bullpen and starting rotation along with stabilizing the shortstop position. |
| Roster Changes | Five players were removed from the big league roster as part of the offseason strategy. |
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Additional Resources
- Newsweek: Braves Issue Revealing Ha-Seong Kim Update
- House That Hank Built: Braves Have to Accept Ha-Seong Kim Option
- Heavy: Ha-Seong Kim’s Future with Braves
- Wikipedia: Atlanta Braves
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Baseball
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