The Atlanta Braves are preparing to begin the 2026 regular season without shortstop Ha-Seong Kim, who is recovering from an injury. The Braves are hopeful that he will be able to return within the first couple of months of the '26 campaign. Kim recently arrived at spring training camp and provided an update Monday, via Mark Bowman. 

Kim said he is making good progress. While he is not sure about the exact timeline, the Braves shortstop is looking to return "as soon as possible," something he said via interpreter on Monday. According to Bowman, Kim has yet to begin swinging a bat once again, but he has participated in defensive drills.

The exact injury return timeline for Kim is uncertain, but reports have suggested that May could be a possibility for him. Of course, Atlanta will not rush his return. If he ends up needing extra time, a June return may emerge as a possibility. If Kim displays encouraging progress and seems to be on track, then May will remain realistic.

Regardless, Kim should be able to help the Braves throughout the summer and into fall. Atlanta is hoping to return to the postseason this year, and the goal is to have Kim as the starting shortstop in October.

Mauricio Dubon is expected to begin the new campaign at shortstop amid Kim's injury absence. He has performed well so far during the spring. However, Dubon is most impactful in a utility role. He will likely return to his versatile role once Kim is ready to return from injury.

Kim, 30, joined the Braves in 2025 and re-signed with the ball club this past offseason. He later suffered a finger injury during the offseason, however. 

He spent 2025 with the Tampa Bay Rays and the Braves. He hit .234 overall, but Kim saw much better results in Atlanta as opposed to Tampa Bay. With the Braves, Kim hit .253/.316/.368 across 24 games played. He is a strong defender as well. Kim earned a Gold Glove award in 2023 with the San Diego Padres.

There is a reason the Braves re-signed Kim in the offseason. They believe he can handle everyday shortstop duties. It is a significant responsibility, but Kim is a reliable player when healthy. The Braves trust him at the position.

Updates will continue to be provided on Ha-Seong Kim's injury status as they are made available.