The Atlanta Braves are already one of the most talented teams in the league, and they’re poised to get even better. Currently, they’re missing two key pieces: superstar outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. and ace pitcher Spencer Strider. Once these two return and the team is at full strength, they could become serious World Series contenders. However, there’s growing speculation that the Braves might make some significant roster moves in the near future.
FanSided’s Austin Owens recently predicted that the Braves could part ways with 25-year-old outfielder Jarred Kelenic before next season. Kelenic, who still has three years of arbitration eligibility, is projected by Spotrac to sign a seven-year, $91 million deal, which would likely cover his remaining arbitration years. Owens noted that Atlanta and Kelenic avoided arbitration by agreeing to a one-year, $2.3 million deal, but with Jurickson Profar joining the team this offseason and Acuña’s return on the horizon, Kelenic might find himself as the odd man out in the outfield rotation.
While Kelenic could provide value off the bench, he’s shown a preference for playing every day, which might not align with the Braves’ plans. Owens compared Kelenic’s situation to that of another player, suggesting that a midseason trade or a move in free agency by 2026 isn’t out of the question. However, unless the Braves use Kelenic as part of a blockbuster trade to acquire another star, letting him go for nothing would be a questionable decision.
Despite not yet reaching superstar status, Kelenic has shown flashes of potential, including a strong 2023 season with the Seattle Mariners. At just 25 years old, he still has plenty of upside, and allowing him to walk without compensation would be a misstep for the Braves.
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