The Atlanta Braves have had to navigate a plethora of unfortunate injuries this season. Unfortunately, that trend has continued with the news that shortstop Ha-Seong Kim was placed on the 10-day IL. Kim's diagnosis is inflammation in his right middle finger. With how poorly he's played this year, that's an incredibly ironic injury. The Braves also optioned right-handed pitcher Anthony Molina to Triple-A.
As far as corresponding moves, top prospect JR Ritchie was scratched from his start with Triple-A Gwinnett to join the Braves as they continue their series against the Mets. He will likely serve in a long-relief role, but could be saved to make a start during Atlanta's series with the Pirates.
The #Braves today recalled RHP JR Ritchie to Atlanta and placed INF Ha-Seong Kim on the 10-day injured list, backdated to July 1, with right middle finger inflammation. Atlanta also returned INF Kyle Farmer from his rehabilitation assignment and reinstated him from the injured…
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) July 4, 2026
Braves begin their Ha-Seong Kim exit strategy, bring JR Ritchie back to the majors
Infielder Kyle Farmer was returned from his rehab assignment to take Kim's roster spot. Farmer served as a great bench piece for Atlanta with a .286 average over 14 at-bats. Braves insider Grant McAuley made a great point: this could benefit Kim and allow him time to get back on track. He's been one of, if not the worst, hitters in baseball since making his season debut. A rehab assignment in the minors may do him a lot of good right now.
As for Ritchie, he has had a bit of a bipolar season, with some great moments along with some he'd like to forget about. His last three starts weren't very good, as he was only able to get through five innings in each game.
Ritchie allowed 13 ER over 15 innings with nine walks and 17 strikeouts. The walks have really started to rack up for the righty, and it's come back to bite him every time. He has 25 walks to 37 strikeouts this season with a 4.87 ERA at the MLB level.
There could be a chance for him to get back into the rotation, as Bryce Elder's velocity took a concerning dip during his last start against the Giants. The Braves hope he will make a start against the Pirates, but with how things have gone this year, they'd be wise to hold their breath.
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