The Atlanta Braves front office has some work left to do this offseason. Nothing major has happened for the organization at the Winter Meetings so far. However, some reports have stated that the Braves are focused on pitching.
It's important, but it furthers anxiety for fans that the team won't address the shortstop situation. AA has said he's confident that Mauricio Dubon could be the everyday shortstop if needed. His confidence is good, but fans would like to see them bring in a proven shortstop like Ha-Seong Kim.
Kim declined his option for the 2026 season, so he's fielding offers in free agency. The Scott Boras client could return to Atlanta for the right price, but we all know how Boras likes to negotiate.
Atlanta's pursuit of the infielder has become more complicated as a surprise team has entered the mix for his services. It was reported that the Tigers have interest in Kim. Detroit has also been linked to Alex Bregman, but Evan Petzoid of the Detroit Free Press stated that the team's interest in him is lukewarm at best.
Tigers' interest in Ha-Seong Kim poses a very real risk to Braves reunion
Their new interest in Kim could further confirm their preference to avoid the Bregman derby. HSK isn't the upgrade that Bregman would be for the Tigers. However, he remains a valuable addition due to his ability to play multiple positions.
Kim's return from injury last season wasn't overly spectacular, but Atlanta saw flashes of his former self. There are concerns there with a decline in his defensive ability, which is his calling card. The offense wasn't incredible, but he played in just 48 games with a .234/.304/.345 slash line, including five homers, 17 RBI, and an 82 wRC+.
This could be why the Braves haven't pushed very hard for him to return. If the price is too high, there's not enough confidence in his ability to take the risk. It's easy to see why Atlanta may consider letting Dubon take the reins for a year and try again next year.
It would be nice to see Kim come back. He seemed to fit in very well in the clubhouse and enjoyed his time with the Braves. However, we know the Braves have some bigger gaps to fill, and Kim isn't the biggest priority.