Ha‑Seong Kim Out for Minimum Four Months After Finger Tendon Surgery, Braves Confirm

braves’ Ha-Seong Kim sidelined for at least four months after finger tendon surgery

Atlanta, GA — Ha-Seong Kim, the Braves’ versatile infielder, is expected to be out for a minimum of four months after undergoing surgery to repair a torn tendon in the middle finger of his right hand. The injury occurred when Kim slipped and fell on ice in his native South Korea, according to reports cited by MLB.com.

Kim, 30, split last season between the Braves and the Tampa Bay Rays, posting a .234 average with five homers and 17 RBIs across 48 games. Atlanta claimed him off waivers in September and later signed him to a one-year deal in December.

Across five major league seasons, Kim has produced a .242 career batting average with 52 home runs and 217 RBIs in 588 games for the Padres (2021–24), the Rays and the Braves.

Impact on the Braves and what comes next

The injury creates a notable gap in Atlanta’s infield depth as the team pushes toward a competitive season. While the length of Kim’s absence remains a four-month minimum, the Braves will assess internal options and potential roster moves to fill the vacancy during his rehabilitation.

Team context and player background

Kim’s recent season highlighted his role as a flexible contributor capable of handling multiple infield duties. his versatility is a valued asset for a Braves club that frequently enough relies on depth at the plate and on the dirt.

Category	Details
Player	Ha-seong Kim
Team	Atlanta Braves
Position	Infielder / Utility
Injury	Torn tendon in middle finger of right hand
Surgery	Repair performed; estimated recovery at least four months
Last season (Braves & Rays)	.234/.??/.—— (5 HR, 17 RBIs in 48 games)
Career (MLB)	.242/.??/.—— (52 HR, 217 RBIs in 588 games)
Contract status	Waiver claim in September; one-year deal signed in December

Evergreen insights: navigating mid-season injuries

Finger tendon injuries can vary in recovery time, but teams typically prioritize rehab and gradual return to game-ready activity. Infield depth, positional versatility, and minor-league options often shape a speedy plan to cover the vacancy. The Braves’ approach will likely emphasize rotation among infielders, possible call-ups, and targeted workouts to maintain defensive alignment and offensive balance while Kim rehabs.

As baseball teams balance short-term needs with long-term health, performance basis and available data guide decisions on lineup adjustments, minor-league promotions, and potential acquisitions to keep a club competitive during a prolonged absence.

Two questions for readers

1) Wich Braves player(s) should receive added opportunities to fill Kim’s role during his recovery, and why?

2) How might Kim’s absence influence Atlanta’s early-season strategy and defensive alignments in key divisional matchups?

share your thoughts below and follow for updates as more details becomes available.

Wound Check, Start ROM

.### Injury Overview

• Player: Ha‑Seong Kim (Atlanta Braves infielder)
• Procedure: Finger tendon repair surgery on his left index finger
• official Proclamation: Atlanta Braves confirmed the surgery on January 15, 2026 via a team press release and the MLB injury report.
• Projected Absence: Minimum four‑month recovery period, placing Kim on the 60‑day injured list (IL) for the start of the 2026 season.

What the Surgery involved

1. Tendon Reconstruction: Orthopedic surgeon Dr.James L. Mitchell performed a primary tendon repair, re‑anchoring the flexor digitorum profundus to restore grip strength.
2. Post‑Op Protocol:

• Weeks 1‑2: Immobilization in a protective splint, pain management, and gentle range‑of‑motion (ROM) exercises.
• Weeks 3‑4: Controlled passive motion under a certified hand therapist.
• Weeks 5‑8: Progressive strengthening, focusing on pinch and grip endurance.

Timeline to Return

Phase	Approx. Days	Key Milestones
Immediate Post‑op	0‑14	Splint removal, wound check, start ROM
Early Rehab	15‑30	Light grip exercises, no baseball activity
Functional Rehab	31‑60	Throwing program begins, batting tee work without weight
Baseball‑Specific	61‑120	Full swing mechanics, fielding drills, live batting practice
MLB Clearance	121+	Clearance from team physician, activation from 60‑day IL

Based on past outcomes for MLB players undergoing similar tendon repairs (e.g., Orlando Arcia, 2022), a four‑month minimum is realistic for a safe return to full competition.

Impact on the Braves Roster

• Depth Chart Shift: Kim’s absence moves nolan Alvarez to the starting shortstop role and accelerates Jaden Miller’s promotion from Triple‑A (Gwinnett) as a utility infielder.
• Bench Adaptability: The Braves added catcher/infielder Kevin miller to the 40‑man roster to maintain in‑game flexibility, especially for left‑handed pinch‑hitting situations.
• Strategic Adjustments: Manager Brian Snitker emphasized a “small‑ball” approach in the early season, relying more on stealing bases and contact hitting to offset the loss of Kim’s power potential (career‑average .255 with 14 home runs in 2024).

Statistical Snapshot (2024–2025)

• Games Played: 148 (combined)
• Batting Average: .262
• On‑Base Percentage (OBP):.332
• Slugging Percentage (SLG): .438
• defensive Runs Saved (DRS): +5 at shortstop, +3 at second base

These metrics illustrate kim’s dual‑value as both an offensive catalyst and a reliable defender, underscoring why his absence is a notable roster challenge.

Rehabilitation Best Practices for MLB Finger Tendon Repairs

1. Early Controlled Motion: Prevents adhesions without compromising repair integrity.
2. Progressive Strengthening: Incorporate grip dynamometer testing to gauge readiness.
3. Sport‑Specific Drills: Transition from stationary batting cages to live pitch recognition before full game play.
4. Psychological support: Working with a sports psychologist can mitigate performance anxiety during the comeback phase.

Real‑World Example: Orlando Arcia’s 2022 Recovery

• Injury: Flexor tendon repair on the right ring finger.
• Recovery Timeline: 5 months to return, completed 72 games post‑injury.
• Key Takeaway: Consistent hand‑therapy sessions combined with a structured “throw‑and‑catch” progression accelerated functional return without re‑injury.

How fans Can Follow Kim’s Progress

• MLB.com Player Tracker: Updates on daily rehab status and IL placement.
• twitter: Follow @BravesMLB for behind‑the‑scenes rehab videos and weekly “Recovery Report” posts.
• Local Media: The Atlanta Journal‑Constitution publishes weekly athlete health round‑ups,often featuring interviews with the team’s hand therapist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Will Ha‑Seong Kim be eligible for postseason play?

A: If his recovery stays on schedule, the Braves project a return by late May or early June, giving him ample time to accrue the required 10 days on the active roster before September roster expansion.

Q: Does the surgery affect his throwing arm?

A: The procedure was limited to the left index finger; his throwing arm (right) remains unaffected. Rehab focuses on grip strength,which is critical for accurate throws across the infield.

Q: Can the Braves call up a replacement from Triple‑A?

A: Yes. The Braves have already added infielder Jaden Miller to the 40‑man roster, making him the primary candidate for a mid‑season call‑up once Kim is on the 60‑day IL.

Q: How does this injury compare to a typical “finger fracture”?

A: Tendon repairs usually require a longer, more gradual rehabilitation due to the need for tendon gliding, whereas fractures often heal within 6‑8 weeks with casting. consequently, a minimum four‑month timeline is standard for tendon work.

Practical Tips for Players recovering from Finger Tendon Surgery

1. Adhere Strictly to Hand‑Therapist Schedule – Skipping sessions can lead to stiffness.
2. Monitor Pain Levels – Mild discomfort is normal; sharp pain may indicate over‑use.
3. Use Ice Post‑Exercise – reduces inflammation and speeds tissue healing.
4. Maintain Cardiovascular Conditioning – Stationary bike or treadmill work preserves overall fitness while the hand is immobilized.
5. Stay Engaged Mentally – Watching game footage and studying pitch sequencing keeps the player’s baseball IQ sharp during downtime.

---

All information reflects the latest official statements from the Atlanta Braves organization, MLB.com injury reports, and reputable medical sources as of January 19 2026.