Jurickson Profar's suspension gave a second life to outfielder Jarred Kelenic, who was off to yet another slow start. Not only did the team lose Profar, but 2023 MVP Ronald Acuna Jr. wasn't expected to return to the team until May. It was a golden opportunity for Kelenic to disprove last season's woes and claim a long-term role with the team as the 4th outfield option. If Kelenic was anything close to capable, the team has every reason to keep the outfielder consistently involved.
Not only will Profar miss 80 games this season, but the veteran isn't allowed to participate in the postseason if the Braves make it. This left a glaring hole to be filled with Bryan De La Cruz, Eli White, and Stuart Fairchild as Atlanta's only options. While the team did sign Alex Verdugo, the veteran was never going to be ready to start in the first weeks of the season. After losing Profar, it was Kelenic's job to lose.
Jarred Kelenic Has Fumbled Away His Last Chance With the Braves
While the Braves might not choose to cut Kelenic, the outfielder does have options remaining and would be a great replacement for Eli White. Stuart Fairchild is a capable pinch-runner and defensive replacement. The team could opt to go with an outfield of Bryan De La Cruz, Michael Harris, and Alex Verdugo until Acuna is able to return.
Eventually, the team will have Profar back as well; however, where the outfielder falls with the franchise is in question. If the team is getting anything close to capable production from De La Cruz or Verdugo, why make the change? Yes, Profar has a higher upside, but he cannot help your team win when the games matter most.
There is an argument to be made that lesser hitters would benefit from garnering these at-bats to gain experience. No matter what road the Braves choose, it is clear that it should no longer include Jarred Kelenic. Heading into the season, the outfielder was already on shaky ground.
A complete lack of other options is the only thing that has kept Kelenic's roster spot in place. The team would be wise to either move Kelenic to a bench role or option the veteran down to Gwinnett. Whichever road they choose, it has become beyond clear that the team cannot continue to move forward with Kelenic consistently in the lineup. Second and third chances rarely come with the same team. Kelenic has been given both and has unquestionably failed to deliver past already low expectations.