What's happened
Atlanta Braves' shortstop Ha-seong Kim will miss four to five months after surgery for a torn tendon in his right middle finger. Kim was injured in South Korea after slipping on ice. The team now faces adjusting their infield plans for the upcoming season.
What's behind the headline?
Kim's injury significantly impacts the Braves' infield strategy for 2026. With Kim expected to be out until late June, the team will likely rely on Mauricio Dubón at shortstop, who was acquired for utility roles but may need to fill in as a starter. Kim's injury underscores the ongoing challenge of managing player health, especially for those with prior injury histories. The team's ability to adapt quickly will determine their early-season success, and this setback highlights the importance of depth in roster planning. The injury also raises questions about the risks of international travel and off-season activities for MLB players, especially those with a history of injuries. Overall, the Braves' season hinges on their capacity to adjust and the health recovery of Kim, who remains a key player for their defensive and offensive plans.
What the papers say
The AP News articles provide detailed insights into Kim's injury, its timing, and the team's response. The NY Post offers context on Kim's injury in South Korea and his recent contract, emphasizing the impact on team plans. Contrasting perspectives highlight the significance of Kim's injury, with AP focusing on the injury's specifics and the team's immediate adjustments, while the NY Post discusses the broader implications of his injury history and contract situation. Both sources agree on the injury's severity but differ in emphasis—AP on the immediate team impact, NY Post on the background and future outlook.
How we got here
Kim joined the Braves in September 2025 after a series of injuries with the Rays and himself. He re-signed with Atlanta on a one-year deal, aiming to be their starting shortstop. His injury occurred in South Korea, where he slipped on ice, leading to surgery in Atlanta. Kim has a history of injuries, including shoulder surgery in 2024.
Go deeper
- How will the Braves replace Kim during his recovery?
- What does this mean for the team's chances in the upcoming season?
- Could Kim's injury affect his future with the team?
More on these topics
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Ha-seong Kim is a South Korean professional baseball shortstop for the San Diego Padres of Major League Baseball. Kim was drafted 29th overall by the Nexen Heroes in the 2014 Korea Baseball Organization Draft.
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The Atlanta Braves are an American professional baseball team based in the Atlanta metropolitan area. They compete in Major League Baseball as a member club of the National League East division.