Ha-Seong Kim's contract opt-out forces Braves to face infield questions

Last winter, Ha-Seong Kim entered free agency after spending the past four seasons with the San Diego Padres. He agreed to sign a two-year, $29 million contract with the Tampa Bay Rays with a player option for the 2026 season. 

He got off to a slow start, partly due to issues stemming from his offseason shoulder surgery. He would also experience some back and calf issues, decreasing his potential with Tampa Bay. 

By September, the Rays had placed him on waivers, and the Atlanta Braves were quick to acquire him. After joining Atlanta, he seemed to have rebounded, especially offensively, putting together a 10-game hitting streak. 

Shortstop was a hole for the Braves for much of the season this year. They started with Orlando Arcia, but his struggles led to his being released in May. 

They then went with Nick Allen, who was an improvement but struggled offensively. So, when the Braves acquired Kim, they finally found a solution at shortstop, but they may need to think of a Plan B if Kim opts out. 

Kim recently returned home to Korea to enjoy the offseason. At the airport, he was asked about what his future may hold, and the slugger was cautious in his response, via Yoon Wook-jae of Naver. 

"I don't know," said Kim about his opt-out decision. "I think I'll have to talk to my agent, and I don't know anything about my future."

If Kim does opt out, there are not too many options that will be available on the open market. Bo Bichette will be one of the headliners alongside Trevor Story if he opts out. After that, Atlanta's best option could come internally.