The Atlanta Braves are stocked with excellent players, but one position is clearly in need of improvement.
The Braves could look for shortstops in free agency.
While discussing free agents the Braves could pursue, FanSided’s Zach Pressnell advised the organization to sign San Diego Padres star Ha-Seong Kim to replace Orlando Arcia.
“However, signing Padres shortstop Ha-seong Kim would be the Braves’ most cost-effective choice. Kim suffered a shoulder injury late in the 2024 season, and he will most certainly miss the start of the 2025 season, according to Pressnell. “But he will be back and he’ll be a solid piece in the Braves infield rotation.”
Kim appeared in 121 games last season, but an injury kept him out of the playoffs. He had a terrible year, batting.233/.330/.370. In 2023, he had 17 home runs and a.260 batting average. If Kim can recover from his injury and produce like he did in 2023, the Braves could be getting a bargain.
Spotrac expects him to sign a four-year, $49 million contract in free agency. The Braves did not receive the production they expected from Arcia following his All-Star season in 2023. His batting average decreased from.264 to.218. He did hit 17 home runs, but the Braves require a player who can consistently reach base.
Kim also won a Gold Glove Award in 2023 as a utility player. He and Albies could be a great duo up the middle for the Braves.
