One of the most intriguing storylines from the Atlanta Braves’ 2024 season is Jarred Kelenic.
When the Braves pulled the trigger on that offseason trade with the Mariners, bringing in Kelenic, Marco Gonzalez, and Evan White, there was a fair bit of excitement.
The guy was a former top prospect and had some solid moments in Seattle, and Atlanta was banking on him taking that next step in a new environment.
After a full season in a Braves uniform, we’re left wondering what happened. And, more importantly, what’s next?
A Season of Missed Potential
Now, let’s be clear—Kelenic wasn’t a total bust. He still had his moments. But the idea that he was going to elevate his game?
That just didn’t quite materialize. The numbers don’t lie: his batting average dropped from .253 in 2023 with Seattle to .231 in Atlanta.
Sure, he managed 15 home runs and 45 RBI, but in a season where injuries to Ronald Acuña Jr. and Michael Harris II gave him plenty of opportunities, the Braves were hoping for more.
So, what went wrong? Well, thanks to a recent report from David O’Brien of The Athletic, we now know Kelenic battled some nagging injuries throughout the season.
To his credit, he didn’t use those injuries as an excuse, but when you start connecting the dots, it helps explain his second-half struggles.
A Strong Start, A Sudden Decline
Early on, things looked promising. Kelenic hit .255 with 10 home runs and 29 RBI before the All-Star break.
He was especially solid in June, slashing .304 with six home runs and 14 RBI. That’s the kind of production the Braves were hoping for. But then? The wheels came off in the second half.
His slash line plummeted to .183/.252/.343, and suddenly, his at-bats became fewer and fewer.
With Harris returning from injury and the Braves bringing in Jorge Soler, Kelenic was squeezed out of regular playing time.
Braves 2025 Season: A Make-or-Break Year
Heading into 2025, the Braves are still counting on him—at least for now. With Acuña Jr. recovering from his ACL injury, Kelenic is expected to spend a lot of time in the right field.
But once Acuña is back? He’s likely looking at a fourth outfielder role behind Harris and Jurickson Profar.
What’s next for Kelenic? The talent is still there, and if he’s fully healthy, there’s a real chance he can bounce back. But in a Braves lineup stacked with talent, he’s going to have to prove he belongs.
And with a team that has championship aspirations, there’s not a lot of room for extended struggles.
One thing’s for sure—2025 is shaping up to be a make-or-break year for Jarred Kelenic.
