Xavier Scruggs gives honest take on Ha-Seong Kim’s defense after $20 million Atlanta Braves move

Ha-Seong Kim is starting a new chapter with the Atlanta Braves, and the early support is already strong. On Monday, the former San Diego Padres infielder signed a one-year, $20 million deal with Atlanta. The move quickly drew attention across Major League Baseball because of Kim’s defense and his ability to play many positions.

Former St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Xavier Scruggs shared his thoughts on Tuesday during an appearance on MLB Network Radio. Speaking from the studio in New York, Scruggs focused on Kim’s glove work, health, and fit with the Braves lineup ahead of the 2025 season in Atlanta.

Xavier Scruggs praises Ha-Seong Kim’s defense and versatility

Xavier Scruggs made it clear that Ha-Seong Kim’s defense is a big reason the Braves made this move. Speaking on MLB Network Radio on Tuesday, Scruggs said Kim brings calm and balance to the infield.

He explained that Kim allows a team to settle him at one position or move him around when needed. “You can hunker down at one spot,” Scruggs said. “It gives the team continuity there too. He’s also somebody you know can produce.”

Scruggs also addressed Kim’s right labrum injury from last season. The injury delayed Kim’s debut with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2024.

Even with that setback, Kim still posted career-best numbers in average exit velocity and hard-hit rate once he returned.

Scruggs pointed to the end of last season, when Kim struggled late at the plate, going 1-for-19. He said the focus now should be health. “You’re really just hoping to get a healthy, full season from him in a Braves uniform,” Scruggs said.



Atlanta Braves general manager Alex Anthopoulos also spoke on Monday, via CBS Sports, after the deal was announced in Atlanta. Anthopoulos said the team believes Kim can return to the form he showed earlier in his MLB career.

“Come here, be the player you can be, have a great year, and get the contract you deserve,” Anthopoulos said.

Kim previously signed a two-year, $29 million contract with the Tampa Bay Rays in February, which included an opt-out after one season. That clause helped lead to his $20 million deal with Atlanta, a $4 million raise from his prior salary.

Between 2021 and 2024 with the San Diego Padres, Kim hit .242 with 52 home runs and 217 RBIs.

Last season, split between the Rays and Braves, he hit .234 with five home runs and 17 RBIs. Anthopoulos added he hopes Kim stays with the Braves beyond 2026.

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