Ha-Seong Kim Sidelined 4-5 Months After Hand Surgery
Ha-Seong Kim, the Braves’ infielder, is facing a significant setback. Recently, he underwent surgery to repair a torn tendon in his right middle finger. This procedure took place in Atlanta, and the recovery period is projected to last between four to five months.
Details of Injury and Surgery
The injury occurred while Kim was in South Korea, where he fell on ice. This disappointing news comes as the Braves had high hopes for Kim after claiming him off waivers from the Tampa Bay Rays in September. With last-minute considerations for the 2026 season, Kim opted out of his previous player option but signed a one-year, $20 million contract with Atlanta in December.
Braves’ Strategic Moves
Acquiring Kim was part of a bold strategy to bolster the Braves’ lineup, particularly at shortstop. Last season, the team struggled with a low 54 wRC+, the worst in Major League Baseball. Their 0.4 fWAR at shortstop was similarly poor, only outperforming the Guardians and Rockies.
When healthy, Kim is known as a valuable player, contributing three to four wins due to his solid batting and excellent defense. However, his history of injuries raises concerns. In August 2024, he suffered a torn labrum in his right shoulder, which ended his time with the Padres prematurely and hindered their postseason aspirations.
Track Record of Injuries
The Rays had initially invested in Kim with a two-year contract, despite knowing he would miss initial games due to his shoulder surgery. Unfortunately, his recovery extended, delaying his debut until after the 2023 All-Star break. He also faced multiple injuries that led to repeated visits to the injured list.
Future Outlook
Despite these challenges, Kim’s late-season performance in 2024 convinced him to test free agency rather than accept his option. His successful 24-game stint with the Braves gave the team confidence to re-sign him for a higher salary, understanding the risks surrounding his health.
Kim’s ability to enhance Atlanta’s offense is crucial, especially following the trade of Nick Allen to Houston. As the Braves navigate this injury setback, they remain hopeful for a swift recovery and a return to peak performance.
