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Braves Sign Ha-Seong Kim: $20M Deal for Comeback

12/16/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Atlanta Braves signed Ha-Seong Kim to a $20 million deal after he opted out of a $16 million option.
Kim, 30, previously played for the Tampa Bay Rays, where injuries limited him to 48 games and a .234 average.
He posted .253 with three home runs in 24 games for the Braves.
Anthopoulos said he hopes Kim returns to his Gold Glove form from the San Diego Padres.

History

Historical Context

Major League Baseball's free agency began in 1975, following the Seitz decision that ended the reserve clause, which had restricted player movement since 1879. This landmark change allowed players like Andy Messersmith to negotiate contracts independently, leading to significant salary increases. Today, free agency continues to influence player contracts and team strategies, exemplified by Ha-Seong Kim's $20 million deal after his transition to the Atlanta Braves.

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Story summary

The Atlanta Braves signed Ha-Seong Kim to a $20 million deal after he opted out of a $16 million option.
Kim, 30, previously played for the Tampa Bay Rays, where injuries limited him to 48 games and a .234 average.
He posted .253 with three home runs in 24 games for the Braves.
Anthopoulos said he hopes Kim returns to his Gold Glove form from the San Diego Padres.

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