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The New York Yankees and Atlanta Braves both saw their 2026 seasons end on Wednesday without a World Series title, forcing each organization to evaluate offseason changes. The Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Braves 3-1 in the National League Division Series, and the Tampa Bay Rays swept the Yankees in the American League Division Series. Despite each team winning over 90 games during the regular season, both are now planning for 2027.
One player from each roster stands out as a potential offseason departure: Braves shortstop Ha-Seong Kim and Yankees outfielder Trent Grisham.
Braves: Ha-Seong Kim
Atlanta signed Kim to a one-year, $20 million contract last December. The 30-year-old appeared in only 51 regular-season games in 2026, batting .116 with a .359 OPS and no home runs. While Kim is regarded as a solid defender, his offensive production fell far short of expectations. Consequently, the Braves should seek a new shortstop for 2027. Although few superstar shortstops are expected to hit free agency, Atlanta could pursue a blockbuster trade for players like Jeremy Pena, CJ Abrams, or Zach Neto. In any case, re-signing Kim appears unlikely.
Yankees: Trent Grisham
In 2025, Grisham set a career high with 34 home runs and batted .235, his best average since 2021. The left-handed outfielder accepted the Yankees' qualifying offer last November, returning on a one-year, $22.025 million deal. However, in 2026, the soon-to-be 30-year-old hit .211 with 18 homers, and concerns about his defense and speed emerged. He also went 2-for-15 in five playoff games, with one hit coming on an apparent sacrifice bunt attempt. New York's 2027 outfield likely will include Aaron Judge, Cody Bellinger, Spencer Jones, and Heliot Ramos, with Jasson Dominguez as a possibility if he improves his defense. Re-signing Grisham does not seem necessary as the Yankees aim to upgrade their roster this winter.