Kim not expected back until the middle of June at the very earliest, so the Rays will create a spot on their 40-man roster with this move. They used it to select the contract of Connor Seabold.

Rays manager Kevin Cash told reporters on Friday that Kim is still “a ways away” from making it back from offseason shoulder surgery. The 29-year-old shortstop hasn’t experienced any sort of setback, but it appears the Rays don’t want to risk rushing him back too quickly. There should be some additional clarity on his exact timeline once he’s cleared to kick off an extended minor league rehab assignment.

Kim is still tracking for a return to the Rays in late May or early June, though he may not be able to handle the shortstop position defensively initially. A recent visit with Dr. Neal ElAttrache revealed that there’s no structural damage in the shoulder and that he’s at about 80 percent currently. He’ll continue a slow and deliberate build up until he’s ready for his Rays’ debut.

Kim is aiming for a mid-May return. Taylor Walls will serve as the Rays’ primary shortstop until then, with José Caballero backing him up.