Jarred Kelenic Designated For Assignment, Claimed By Seattle Mariners

David

3 min read

Post on May 08, 2025

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Jarred Kelenic DFA'd by the Yankees, Immediately Claimed by Seattle Mariners: A Return to the Emerald City

The baseball world was abuzz late last night with the surprising news that outfielder Jarred Kelenic, once a highly touted prospect, was designated for assignment (DFA) by the New York Yankees. Even more surprising? He was immediately claimed off waivers by the Seattle Mariners, the team that originally drafted him. This unexpected move marks a full-circle journey for the 24-year-old, offering a second chance in the organization where his career began.

The news sent shockwaves through the baseball community. Kelenic, selected sixth overall in the 2018 MLB Draft by the Mariners, was once considered one of the top prospects in the game. His prodigious power and potential seemed limitless. However, his time in Seattle was marked by inconsistency, leading to his trade to the Yankees in 2022.

Why the DFA? A Look at Kelenic's Recent Performance:

Kelenic's struggles in pinstripes were well documented. While showing flashes of his considerable talent, he couldn't consistently translate that potential into on-field results. His batting average remained below expectations, and his strikeout rate remained stubbornly high. The Yankees, facing roster crunch and needing to make room for other players, ultimately decided to DFA him. This wasn't a reflection of a lack of talent, but rather a strategic move by the Yankees' front office.

A Second Chance in Seattle:

The Mariners, however, clearly still see value in Kelenic. His return to Seattle represents a gamble, but one with potentially high rewards. The familiar surroundings and a renewed opportunity might be exactly what the young outfielder needs to reignite his career. The Mariners' player development system is renowned for its ability to nurture talent, and they'll likely work closely with Kelenic to address his weaknesses and maximize his strengths.

What Does This Mean for the Mariners?

The acquisition of Kelenic adds depth to the Mariners' outfield, providing valuable insurance and competition for playing time. His return could prove to be a shrewd move, particularly if he can regain his former form. The team's front office clearly believes in giving players second chances, demonstrating a commitment to player development and fostering a positive team environment.

Looking Ahead: Can Kelenic Rebound?

The question on everyone's mind is: can Kelenic recapture the magic that made him a top prospect? The pressure is on, but the familiarity of the Mariners' organization and a second chance could be the catalysts he needs. This move represents a significant gamble for both Kelenic and the Mariners, but the potential payoff could be enormous. Only time will tell if this reunion will be a success story or another chapter in a frustrating career. We'll be watching closely.

Keywords: Jarred Kelenic, Seattle Mariners, New York Yankees, DFA, Designated for Assignment, MLB, baseball, prospect, trade, return, second chance, player development

Call to Action: What are your thoughts on the Mariners' decision to claim Jarred Kelenic? Share your predictions in the comments below!