The Atlanta Braves activated Ha-Seong Kim from the injured list Monday, but the veteran infielder is not expected to return to an everyday role. Instead, the club plans to keep rookie Jim Jarvis as its starting shortstop after his strong play during Kim's absence.
Braves president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos confirmed the decision, with MLB.com beat writer Mark Bowman reporting that Kim will rarely play despite being healthy enough to return. Atlanta also designated Jorge Mateo for assignment to make room for Kim on the active roster, while Mauricio Dubón is expected to shift into a super-utility role.
The Braves entered Monday with a 67-45 record, holding a 7.5-game lead over the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League East.
Kim's difficult first season in Atlanta has been defined by injuries. The 29-year-old has appeared in just 27 games, batting .068 with five hits in 73 at-bats, no home runs, three RBIs and one stolen base. He missed the start of the season after tearing a ligament in his right middle finger before later returning to the injured list because of finger inflammation.
Jarvis, meanwhile, has taken advantage of his opportunity since his July 2 promotion. The rookie is batting .273 while providing steady defense at shortstop, earning the organization's confidence to remain the everyday starter.
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The decision leaves Kim in a reserve role despite signing a one-year, $20 million contract before the season. Atlanta's front office appears committed to rewarding Jarvis' performance rather than immediately restoring Kim to the lineup.
With Jarvis staying at shortstop and Dubón moving into a versatile role around the diamond, the Braves have prioritized continuity as they continue their push to protect their National League East lead during the final two months of the regular season.
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