Free agent Kim Ha-seong returns to Braves on 1-year deal: reports

Free agent infielder Kim Ha-seong is reportedly returning to the Atlanta Braves on a one-year contract. Citing a source, MLB.com reported Monday (U.S. local time) that Kim had signed a $20 million deal to play one more season for the Braves, after spending the late portions of the 2025 season with them. Kim, 30, became a free agent after declining his $16 million player option with the Braves for 2026. That option was part of a two-year contract he had signed with the Tampa Bay Rays as a free agent before the 2025 season. Coming off a shoulder surgery late last year, Kim didn't make his Rays debut until July. Then once he returned to the field, Kim dealt with calf and back injuries and was limited to only 24 games. He only batted .214/.290/.321 with two homers and five RBIs before the Rays waived him. The Braves, in search of a productive shortstop, snatched him up at the start of September. Kim went on to bat .253/.316/.368 with three homers and 12 RBIs in 24 games for his new team, and put together a season-best 10-game hitting streak while playing his typically strong defense. Kim play