Ha-Seong Kim Close to Return as Rays Monitor Final Rehab Start
Ha-Seong Kim could return to the Tampa Bay Rays sooner rather than later. Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reported that the infielder is set to be evaluated for a possible return to the Major Leagues after he completes his final rehab start with Triple-A Durham on Monday.
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Kevin Cash has noted that the organization has been 'very encouraged' by Kim's rehab progress. Still, Rays president of baseball operations Erik Neander has stated that an immediate return is not guaranteed.
Ha-Seong Kim would provide boost to Rays' playoff hopes
For a Rays team that has recently experienced a resurgence, adding Kim could be a major boost for a squad aiming to reach the playoffs this season. It should be noted that Kim signed a two-year, $29 million deal with the Rays this past offseason and has not yet worn a Rays uniform after undergoing shoulder surgery late last year, which has kept him off the field for some time.
Before Kim signed with the Rays, he spent time with the San Diego Padres as their primary shortstop before suffering his injury. His best season with the Padres was in 2023, when he posted a .260 batting average, a .351 on-base percentage and hit 17 homers. That year, he finished 14th in MVP voting in the National League and won a Gold Glove.
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This season, Jose Caballero and Taylor Walls have played at shortstop for the Rays. While they offer Gold Glove defense, it should be noted that Kim, who has provided a decent bat in the past, should be able to deliver the same defensive prowess as Caballero and Walls and provide a much better bat in the middle of a Rays lineup that seems to be firing on all cylinders.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 30, 2025, where it first appeared.
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