The Atlanta Braves are getting back one of their better defensive players, with infielder Ha-Seong Kim returning from his rehab assignment. The Braves announced on Monday that Kim was returned from the injured list, while outfielder Eli White was placed on the seven-day concussion injured list. White had made a catch on Sunday to end the sixth inning with the bases loaded and smashed hard into the fence in right field at Dodger Stadium to preserve a 4-0 lead.
Ha-Seong Kim Returning, Will Boost Braves at Shortstop
Kim was selected off waivers from the Tampa Bay Rays last season and did well as the Atlanta Braves’ shortstop. In 24 games after joining the Braves, he hit .253 with a .684 OPS. Kim declined his player option in the offseason and became a free agent before signing a one-year, $20 million deal to remain in Atlanta.
The #Braves today returned INF Ha-Seong Kim from his rehabilitation assignment and reinstated him from the injured list, and placed OF Eli White on the 7-day concussion IL.
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) May 11, 2026
Sadly for the Braves, Kim has missed all season with a laceration in his right middle finger. While he has been on the injured list, a rotation of infielder/outfielder Mauricio Dubón (28 games) and infielder Jorge Mateo (20 games) has been used by manager Walt Weiss. Ha-Seong Kim returning to be the Braves’ everyday shortstop will allow Dubon to go back to jumping around the field.
During his rehab assignment between Double-A Mississippi and Triple-A Gwinnett, Kim did well. In nine games, he hit .286 with a .733 OPS.
With White out for the next week, Dubon’s experience in the outfield will be leaned on. Dubon’s availability to play the outfield also comes in handy with right fielder Ronald Acuña Jr. also on the injured list (Grade 1 hamstring strain). Acuña is expected to return sometime in May, which is a good sign after having surgery on both knees.
Acuna is the only Braves regular on the injured list, but once he returns, the Braves will have all their regulars playing for the first time this season, which could lead to some tough roster choices. Given all their injuries this season, the Braves might be a team to add depth around the edges of their roster to remain competitive in a tough National League.
Main Photo Credit: © Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
