"Following a redemptive month of September where Ha-Seong Kim joined the Atlanta Braves, there was always a very strong possibility of Kim opting out of his deal in order to test the free agency market. It made sense for him and all the elements were there: He had a lovely September, he didn't exactly seem super-committal to staying in recent interviews and he's also a Scott Boras client."
""Very likely" has turned into "confirmed," as Jon Heyman of the New York Post is reporting that Ha-Seong Kim will be opting out of his deal with the Braves. So that's the bad news! The good news is that the Braves have publicly indicated that they're going to actually make a legit run at retaining Kim's services for 2026 and possibly beyond as well. Again, it'll probably take a pretty penny since Kim is now officially the crown jewel of this season's shortstop free agency class."
Ha-Seong Kim opted out of his contract with the Atlanta Braves and will test the free-agent market. Kim produced a strong September with the Braves, did not appear fully committed to staying and is represented by agent Scott Boras. A weak shortstop free-agent market increases Kim's leverage and his recent play elevated him within the class. The Braves have publicly stated intentions to make a serious effort to re-sign Kim for 2026 and potentially beyond. Re-signing Kim would remove a pressing shortstop need and simplify roster planning, allowing the team to concentrate resources on pitching and other areas.
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