The Atlanta Braves are navigating a frustrating cycle of injuries this season, and while reinforcements are on the way, the front office may need to think ahead. Every time a key player returns to the lineup, another seems to land on the injured list—and the shortstop position has become a particular point of concern.

Ha-Seong Kim, who signed a one-year, $20 million deal with the Braves this past winter, is nearing his return from an offseason injury. The 2024 All-Star has been turning heads during his rehab assignment with Triple-A Gwinnett, showing flashes of the form that made him a valuable two-way contributor. According to reports, both Kim and reliever Dylan Dodd impressed in their latest outings, giving Atlanta hope that depth is finally coming.

But here's the catch: Kim's contract is a one-year commitment at a hefty price tag. While the Braves invested $20 million in him for 2026, the long-term picture at shortstop remains uncertain. If Kim's production doesn't meet expectations—or if the team decides against re-signing him at a similar figure—Atlanta may need a contingency plan.

Enter CJ Abrams of the Washington Nationals. The 25-year-old shortstop is under team control for several more years and comes with an affordable $4.2 million salary this season. While Abrams isn't known for elite defense—a trait the Braves typically prioritize at shortstop—his offensive upside is hard to ignore. He's a growing bat with the ability to impact the game at the plate and on the bases.

Trade speculation has already linked Abrams to Atlanta. In a recent analysis, one writer noted that the Braves "desperately need a shortstop" and that adding Abrams "would bolster their roster in a huge way." The cost would likely be significant—prospects are always the price for young, controllable talent—but the reward could be a dynamic infield presence for years to come.

For Braves fans, the question is whether the organization values offensive firepower enough to move away from its glove-first tradition at the position. If Kim's return doesn't solidify the spot, a trade for Abrams could be the move that keeps Atlanta competitive both now and in the future.