Braves' $20M Gold Glove winner reveals return timeline after encouraging injury update

The Atlanta Braves addressed several top priorities this offseason with multiple signings. One of the biggest needs was at shortstop, and the team filled that void by bringing in a familiar face, Ha-Seong Kim.

“Shortstop Ha-Seong Kim is returning to the Atlanta Braves, agreeing Monday to a one-year, $20 million contract that addressed a major offseason priority for the team. Kim gets a $4 million raise. He had declined a $16 million player option that was in the two-year, $29 million contract he signed in February with Tampa Bay, a deal that paid him $13 million,” ESPN wrote.

However, Kim’s signing took an unfortunate turn in January when he suffered a freak injury during the offseason. The shortstop fell while he was back home, which led to a significant setback.

“Atlanta Braves shortstop Ha-Seong Kim is expected to be sidelined four to five months after having surgery to repair a torn tendon in his right middle finger, the team said. The Braves said Kim suffered the injury in Korea and had the procedure Sunday in Atlanta. Kim's return to Atlanta on a one-year, $20 million contract this offseason addressed a major priority for the club,” ESPN wrote.

Kim has been away from the clubhouse while recovering from the injury. On Monday, he returned to be with the Braves and provided an update on when he hopes to return to the field.

“Kim Says his condition has improved after two months of rehab and he’s aiming to return as soon as possible, hopefully around early May. The injury happened after slipping on an icy street, but he was told there should be no long-term issues if rehab goes well,” Eric Yu posted.

In the meantime, Mauricio Dubón and Jorge Mateo will likely split time at shortstop, depending on who gets off to the hotter start. When Kim is fully healthy, there is little doubt he will reclaim the everyday role.

The Braves are encouraged by the progress Kim has made during his rehab and will continue to monitor his recovery. If Atlanta wants a legitimate shot at returning to the playoffs, Kim’s presence in the lineup will be an important piece of that push.

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