Braves predicted to part ways with $20M underachieving Gold Glove winner at trade deadline

Braves predicted to part ways with $20M underachieving Gold Glove winner at trade deadline originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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The Atlanta Braves are off to a strong start this season, opening up a sizable lead in the NL East. However, not every player has matched that pace.

Ha-Seong Kim has struggled since returning from injury. As Atlanta approaches the trade deadline, the organization is beginning to evaluate his long-term fit.

“Sounds like the Braves may be approaching a crossroads with Ha-Seong Kim. The belief internally may still be there, but if this continues another couple weeks, it feels like a legitimate ‘what are we doing at shortstop?’ conversation is coming,” 680 The Fan’s Chris Dimino said.

Kim has had every opportunity to find his rhythm but has yet to deliver consistent production. Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos has also hinted that the team could be active at the deadline.

“I fully expect and hope that we will be engaged in trades come July. I’m not trying to overly excite anybody or promise anything. But if we’re playing the way we are right now, we’re going to be in there,” Anthopoulos said.

With the deadline approaching, Kim could become a name to watch. There is growing belief that the Braves could explore moving him, especially given the production of Jorge Mateo and Mauricio Dubón.

“Trading away Kim isn’t about what you can receive in return for the infielder, but handing the veteran a needed change of scenery. For the Braves, it is a chance to clear a roster spot that could be used for a player who has a bit more of a chance of being an important contributor or making a postseason roster. Mateo and Dubon can play all over the infield and handle duties in left field, giving the roster an incredible level of flexibility,” HTHB’s Nick Halden wrote.

The Braves are in a difficult spot with Kim, but he still has time to turn things around over the next month. Eventually, however, Atlanta cannot afford to simply wait indefinitely.

Kim is making $20 million this season and will become a free agent afterward. If the Braves decide to move him, it would not be disastrous. He remains a strong defender, but his bat will need to improve if he wants to remain in Atlanta.

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