When the 2025 season began, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jarred Kelenic was given every possible chance to win a starting role. The outfielder was coming off an incredibly frustrating season, but the team still hadn't made needed additions, appearing content to shop in the bargain aisles of free agency, hoping for an answer.
It didn't take long to become unavoidably clear that Kelenic wasn't going to be the team's needed answer. The offensive woes continued with the outfielder's approach simply not being up to Major League standards. Still, there was hope Atlanta could find a trade package to shed the contract and give Kelenic a fresh start.
Hopes of this happening continue to grow bleak with Kelenic struggling with the Gwinnett Stripers. Since joining the Triple-A affiliate, the .209 average and 46 strikeouts speak for themselves. There is no way around the ugly regression the outfielder has suffered since the demotion. While it proves the Braves made the right decision, it also tanks any hopes of escaping the contract before the upcoming trade deadline. Unless Kelenic is traded for an equally unappealing asset, it is hard to see a scenario where a deal gets done.
Braves Outfielder Jarred Kelenic Continues to Underwhelm in Minor League Assignment
The Braves signed Kelenic to a one-year deal that will guarantee $2.3 million this season. It seems likely the team is going to turn the page after this season, despite plenty of years of control remaining. Unless the outfielder is willing to sign an extremely limited minor league deal, there simply isn't a path to the two sides continuing with the current level of performance.
Whether it is the frustration of demotion or true regression is up for debate when deciding why the numbers look like they do. However, there isn't any changing the fact that Kelenic isn't giving the team a single reason to consider having the former starter return to the active roster. With Eli White and Alex Verdugo offering more offensive upside, there is no motivation to make a change.
Jurickson Profar will soon return as well, making the lineup even better and offering the team the weapons of Verdugo or White as pinch-hitters. No question, the trade for Kelenic continues to look worse with each passing day.