With only 5 hits in 65 at-bats to start the season, Ha-Seong Kim, earning $20 million annually, has fallen out of the starting rotation.

The Atlanta Braves lost 2-5 to the San Diego Padres on the road, extending their losing streak to four games. What stands out even more than the defeat is the plight of the Braves' Korean infielder, Ha-Seong Kim. The shortstop, earning $20 million this season (about 145 million RMB), is no longer part of the regular lineup.

Kim started at shortstop batting ninth in this game, going 0-for-3 and dropping his batting average to a dismal .077. He was later replaced by pinch-hitter Dominic Smith. On the Padres' side, Korean utility player Song Sung-mun came in later to play second base defensively but did not get an at-bat.

Kim was traded to the Braves in 2025 and entered free agency after the season, ultimately staying with Atlanta on a one-year, $20 million contract. However, he underwent finger surgery during spring training and didn't start playing in the majors until mid-May. Since his return, he has managed only 5 singles in 65 at-bats, and since June, he has just 1 hit in 20 at-bats, with his offense virtually nonexistent.

The Braves currently lead the NL East with 48 wins, holding a 4.5-game advantage, but they have now lost four straight. As the summer trade season approaches, Kim can’t even secure a starting spot. With a $20 million salary attached, moving that contract may prove difficult.