Braves’ Jarred Kelenic breaks silence on getting optioned
Atlanta Braves outfielder Jarred Kelenic spoke out about how he is dealing with his demotion and his mindset heading into it.
The Atlanta Braves and manager Brian Snitker made a tough decision on Thursday. They are optioning outfielder Jarred Kelenic, sending the 25-year-old down to the minors. He started the season at the top of the outfield depth chart alongside Ronald Acuna Jr. and Michael Harris II, but now he has to work his way back to the majors. First-year Brave Alex Verdugo will take his place.
Kelenic is having his worst season since 2023, his last year with the Seattle Mariners. After giving him a month to settle in, the Braves pulled the plug. While being sent down to the minors is tough news to absorb, Kelenic is approaching it with a positive mindset, according to Atlanta Journal writer Gabe Burns.
“Nobody knows what the future holds,” said Kelenic on his next steps. “I know what I’m capable of doing. I think the organization knows what I’m capable of doing. …If I just go out, do my thing, this could be a real positive.”
Kelenic is a proven talent in Major League Baseball, so his stint in the minors could be short. He was one of the few constants in an up-and-down season for the Braves in 2024. His bat may have gone cold, but his talent is undeniable.
