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20 hours ago
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The Atlanta Braves got their man. According to Jon Heyman, the Braves are in agreement with free agent shortstop Ha-Seong Kim on a one-year $20 million contract.
After reaching free agency last offseason, following four seasons with the San Diego Padres, Kim signed a a two-year $29 million deal with the Tampa Bay Rays.
Things got off to a poor start in Tampa Bay as Kim hit just .214 in 24 games with the Rays after recovering from injury before being designated for assignment. Having struggled to find a shortstop since the departure of Dansby Swanson, the Atlanta Braves were eager to claim Kim off waivers.
In a change of scenery, Kim excelled with the Braves. In 24 games with Atlanta, Kim hit .253 with three home runs, 12 RBI's and 22 hits.
Due to his improved play, Kim opted out of the second year of his contract with the Braves, looking to earn a bit more in free agency. Now earning $20 million, Kim received a $4 million raise to stay in Atlanta.
Entering his age 30 season, Kim still has plenty of upside. The former Gold Glove winner plays exceptional defense at both shortstop and second base. Additionally, when he's hot at the plate, he can become a dynamic player. In his best offensive season with the Padres (2023), Kim hit .260 and posted 5.4 WAR to go along with 17 home runs, 60 RBIs, and 38 stolen bases, earning him MVP votes for the first time in his career.
If Kim is able to return to this type of form at the plate, in addition to his defensive prowess, the Braves will have gotten a great return on their investment.
More MLB news:
San Francisco has 'checked in on' Cody Bellinger amid free agency
Baltimore Orioles eye Marlins' Edward Cabrera in a trade to shore up their rotation
Tigers re-sign Kyle Finnegan to a two-year $19 million contract
Former GM predicts the Yankees to land Freddy Peralta in a trade with the Brewers
- Detroit once again showing strong interest in free agent Alex Bregman
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