Ha-Seong Kim is once again absent from the Atlanta Braves’ starting lineup, adding another layer of uncertainty around the veteran infielder’s role with the club.
Kim had recently returned from the injured list and briefly rejoined Atlanta’s lineup, but his inconsistent playing time has continued to draw attention.
The Braves reinstated Kim from the injured list on Aug. 3 after he had been sidelined with right middle-finger inflammation.
Kim’s situation has become particularly notable because Atlanta appeared to be counting on him to provide stability at shortstop after acquiring him.
However, his return has not immediately translated into a regular place in the starting lineup. He was removed from the lineup earlier in the week before returning against the Yankees, and the Braves have continued to rotate players around the infield.
The bigger concern is Kim’s production. Reports have highlighted his difficult offensive stretch, with his batting average sitting at just .067 in the recent period cited by Yahoo Sports.
That lack of production has made it increasingly difficult for Atlanta to keep him in the lineup every day, particularly while the club has other infield options available.
For the Braves, Kim’s continued absence could therefore be about more than simply giving him a routine day off.
Atlanta designated veteran infielder Jorge Mateo for assignment when Kim was reinstated, signaling that the organization still has plans for Kim, but his playing time remains something to watch closely.
With the postseason race intensifying, the Braves will need to determine whether Kim can regain his form and become the everyday contributor they envisioned or whether his role will continue to shrink.
