In the 1st round of the 2024 MLB draft, the New York Mets selected OF Jarred Kelenic with the sixth overall pick. Since then, it’s been clear that he has struggled. Kelenic has been traded twice, most recently to the Atlanta Braves for RHP Cole Phillips and RHP Jackson Kowar. He is still working hard for a player with much potential. Yes, Kelenic has been awful at the start of his young career, and he’s only 24 years old! 2024 will be an ample opportunity for him to prove the Mets and Mariners wrong for giving him up.
Jarred Kelenic Will Try To Revive His Career In Atlanta
Spring Training Struggles
Kelenic is projected to be the eighth hitter in this formidable Braves lineup. However, he’s three for thirty-nine in spring training at-bats in 2024. Currently, Kelenic is batting well below .100, and it has been a frustrating beginning to his Braves tenure. Atlanta recently brought back veteran Adam Duvall to platoon with Kelenic in the outfield, which could be a signal from the Braves about how they feel about Kelenic’s progress so far.
The Braves will platoon Adam Duvall and Jarred Kelenic https://t.co/lseQHIFU7h
— Justin Toscano (@JustinCToscano) March 14, 2024
Jarred Kelenic struck out to end the fifth inning and was showed frustration when he put down his bat and helmet. He’s 0-for-2 this evening, dropping his spring average to .077.
— Justin Toscano (@JustinCToscano) March 16, 2024
While this might seem concerning, remember that it’s only spring training. This is not a definitive sign for the career .204 hitter. Hitting lower in the lineup will alleviate some pressure and allow him to find his rhythm. His average is set to improve significantly this season, and it’s important to remember his youth and limited time in the majors. This trade could be a game-changer for the Braves.
2024 Projections
According to roto champ, Kelenic is projected to hit around .240 with 15 home runs and 13 stolen bases. Atlanta will undoubtedly sign up for a .240 season from him. Regarding who is hitting in front of him, it will likely be catcher Sean Murphy, who is coming off a 21 home runs season, and Orlando Arcia will hit ninth. This is one of the deepest lineups in baseball and the National League. Defensively, he is an average defender and will not hurt the Braves in that department.
Change of Scenery
For some players, a change of scenery is all you need. Think of Sonny Gray. He struggled in New York after he was dealt to the Yankees. In 2023, however, he was a Cy Young award runner-up with the Minnesota Twins and has returned to form since leaving New York after 2018. The pressure of New York was a lot to handle, but all he needed was a fresh start. Atlanta hopes this is the case for their newly acquired Jarred Kelenic. Keep an eye on how he performs, but remember, you can only truly judge a hitter once they get about 150 at-bats in a season. Braves fans, be patient and remember how much potential Kelenic has.
Main Photo Credits: Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports
