The Atlanta Braves have named Kim Ha-seong as their starting shortstop for Game 1 of the National League Wild Card Series against the Philadelphia Phillies at Truist Park on September 30, 2026.
Kim will bat ninth in the order, a decision that keeps him in the lineup despite a difficult regular season at the plate.
Atlanta also chose Mauricio Dubon to start in left field and bat cleanup, while Mike Yastrzemski will serve as designated hitter even though Philadelphia started left-hander Jesus Luzardo.
Kim's Role and Season Context
Kim's inclusion comes after a challenging regular season in which he posted a .
116 batting average with no home runs and nine RBIs in 51 games following offseason finger surgery.
Despite those struggles, Atlanta kept Kim on the postseason roster to anchor the defense, leaning on his career .
286 average against left-handed pitchers from the 2025 season.
The Wild Card opener features a pitching matchup between Atlanta ace Chris Sale, who posted a 14-9 record and 2.16 ERA, and Philadelphia opener Jesus Luzardo, who returns following left shoulder inflammation.
Philadelphia counters with a lineup featuring Trea Turner, Kyle Schwarber, and Bryce Harper at the top of the batting order.
