The Braves have only played two games so far in the early MLB season, but one of the key factors behind their 2-0 start is the performance of 24-year-old Jarred Kelenic. Acquired from the Seattle Mariners in a trade in December 2023, Kelenic made significant contributions to the team’s success.
In Friday’s season opener against the Phillies, Kelenic went 1-2 at the plate, and he continued his strong performance on Saturday by going 3-4 with a walk and also making an impressive defensive play.
For a Braves squad already boasting a deep offensive lineup, Kelenic’s impactful start adds another dimension to what is already considered one of the strongest offenses in baseball. His success over the opening weekend in Philadelphia is a significant positive for a player who entered the season as somewhat of an offensive wildcard for the team.
This observation is not meant to diminish Kelenic’s abilities but rather highlights the exceptional quality of the Braves’ offense and the potential for even greater success if Kelenic can maintain his consistent contributions.
While it’s unlikely that Kelenic will maintain his .667 batting average throughout the season, his ability to consistently reach base will undoubtedly benefit the Braves’ lineup. Coming off his best MLB season in 2023, where he hit .253 with 11 home runs and 49 RBI, Kelenic appears poised for further improvement with the Braves, a team expected to be among the best in baseball once again.
Ultimately, time will reveal the overall success of the Kelenic trade for the Braves, but his immediate impact and performance during his first weekend with the team are already demonstrating his value.
