Braves predicted to make monster trade for $182M power bat, elite defender to replace Ha-Seong Kim

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Braves predicted to make monster trade for $182M power bat, elite defender to replace Ha-Seong Kim originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Atlanta Braves are hoping for a much better month of July after posting the third-worst record in baseball during June. With the trade deadline looming, roster moves are expected.

One of the biggest question marks is whether the Braves will make a move involving Ha-Seong Kim. Kim has struggled throughout the season, and Braves manager Walt Weiss recently commented on his disappointing performance.

“There's no secret sauce or anything to get guys through their struggles. I mean, he works every day. We've had multiple conversations and he's just trying to find his way. It's been a struggle for him. I'm sure he's more frustrated than anybody. But I'm going to continue to mix and match and see if he can find his way. You know, the other guys are going to get opportunities, too. That's all we can do,” Weiss said.

On Thursday, the Braves called up shortstop Jim Jarvis to provide additional depth in the middle infield.

“Jim Jarvis will be tonight’s starting shortstop against Cardinals RHP Dustin May, who has allowed left-handed hitters to construct a .794 OPS against him. Right-handed hitters have a .513 OPS against him. Jarvis’s LH bat could be used in similar situations over the rest of the first half,” Braves beat writer Mark Bowman posted.

Jarvis' promotion is another sign that Kim's opportunities could be running out. In a recent mock trade, the Braves acquire Willy Adames, signaling the end of Kim's tenure as Atlanta's starting shortstop.

“If the Braves prefer to pursue a shortstop at the deadline, and in turn make Dubón their everyday left fielder, Willy Adames would be a potential target. With the Giants out of contention, it was reported last week by ESPN’s Buster Olney that the team is open to dealing some of its higher-paid players, including Adames. It’d be a significant investment from the Braves as Adames is under contract through the 2031 season and is set to make $31.4 million per season for the duration of the deal. Unless San Francisco would eat some of that money in the trade, it may be difficult to come together,” SI’s Karl Rasmussen wrote.

Acquiring Adames would address the offensive issues the Braves have had at shortstop for much of the season. While Kim has been solid defensively, his production at the plate has fallen well below expectations.

Adames is also regarded as a strong clubhouse presence who would add veteran leadership alongside Matt Olson and Chris Sale. If Atlanta wants to strengthen its lineup for the second half, addressing the shortstop position could become a priority.

More MLB news:

• Braves' latest roster move is bad news for struggling Ha-Seong Kim with All-Star break looming​

• Braves reporter urges organization to part ways with $20M undperforming Gold Glove winner​

• Braves predicted to trade for $56M rival Cy Young winner to form star-studded duo with Chris Sale​

• Braves going all-in for $32M two-time Cy Young winner, 2x All-Star, according to rival executives​

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