Jarred Kelenic Claimed Off Waivers By Seattle Mariners

David

3 min read

Post on May 08, 2025

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Mariners Reinstate Kelenic: A Second Chance in Seattle?

The Seattle Mariners have claimed outfielder Jarred Kelenic off waivers, marking a surprising return for the once highly-touted prospect. This move, announced [Date of announcement], signals a potential second chance for Kelenic in the Emerald City, after a tumultuous stint with the organization that saw him sent down to the minor leagues. But what does this mean for the Mariners' outfield and Kelenic's future?

Kelenic, selected sixth overall in the 2018 MLB Draft, was initially considered one of baseball's top prospects. His raw power and potential five-tool skillset generated immense excitement amongst Mariners fans. However, his major league performance failed to live up to the hype, leading to inconsistent playing time and ultimately, his designation for assignment (DFA) earlier this year. This unexpected move sent shockwaves through the baseball community.

A Rocky Road to Redemption

Kelenic's journey with the Mariners has been far from smooth. He struggled with consistency at the plate, demonstrating flashes of brilliance but also extended periods of underperformance. His high strikeout rate and difficulties adapting to major league pitching presented significant hurdles. While he showed glimpses of his potential in the minors, translating that success to the big leagues proved challenging. His DFA fueled intense speculation about his future in professional baseball.

The decision to claim him off waivers suggests that the Mariners' front office still sees untapped potential in the young outfielder. This second chance represents a significant opportunity for both Kelenic and the organization. It allows Kelenic to rebuild his confidence and potentially revitalize his career within a familiar environment. For the Mariners, it provides a low-risk, high-reward scenario – a chance to recoup the investment made in a player who still possesses significant upside.

What's Next for Kelenic and the Mariners?

The Mariners’ outfield is currently crowded, featuring established players like Julio Rodríguez and others. Kelenic's return will likely increase the competition for playing time. His immediate role remains uncertain, but he'll likely be given opportunities to prove himself at the major league level. His performance over the coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining his long-term future with the team.

Key questions remain:

• Can Kelenic overcome his past struggles? This is the biggest question facing both Kelenic and the Mariners. His ability to adjust his approach at the plate and improve his overall consistency will be key to his success.
• What will his role be on the team? Will he primarily serve as a bench player or will he earn a starting role? His performance will directly impact his playing time.
• How will this impact the Mariners' overall performance? The addition of Kelenic adds depth to their outfield but also increases competition. This could ultimately benefit the team by pushing everyone to perform at a higher level.

The Mariners' decision to claim Kelenic off waivers is a bold one, a testament to their faith in his potential. This is a story worth following, as the young outfielder embarks on a crucial chapter in his career. Will this be the beginning of a triumphant comeback, or another setback? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for further updates as Kelenic's story unfolds.