The Atlanta Braves entered the offseason with a relatively short to-do list, but key developments have forced them to reconsider their priorities. Joe Jimenez’s surgery, along with the recovery timelines for Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider, have made the bullpen, rotation, and outfield critical concerns for 2025.
General Manager Alex Anthopoulos now faces the challenge of potentially replacing Max Fried and Charlie Morton, as well as preparing for Strider’s expected absence. Additionally, with Jimenez sidelined, the Braves will need to find a new high-leverage reliever, and possibly add more depth if A.J. Minter departs in free agency.
The outfield is another area in flux. Acuña is expected to miss some time, leaving a void in right field until his return. There are also questions about his ability to play every day as he recovers from his second torn ACL. Meanwhile, left field was a weak spot for the Braves in 2024.
One name that could be in the mix is Jarred Kelenic, but it’s unclear if he’ll be a reliable everyday option. Recent comments from Anthopoulos suggest the team is not fully sold on Kelenic’s role.
“The only locks for the outfield when everyone is healthy – based on how the year ended – are Ronald (Acuña) and (Michael) Harris (II),” Anthopoulos shared with *Atlanta Journal-Constitution* reporter Justin Toscano.
This statement doesn’t inspire confidence in Kelenic’s standing. After hitting just .231 with a .286 OBP and striking out 133 times in 2024, Kelenic’s struggles are hard to ignore, despite his career-high 15 home runs. That said, it seems Kelenic’s chances with the Braves aren’t entirely gone.
Given Acuña’s injury concerns and Harris’ own injury history, Kelenic is likely to have a role early in 2025. Anthopoulos pointed out that the team’s original plan for Kelenic was to contribute offensively from the bottom of the lineup and provide solid defense.
“He’s still a young player. There were ups and downs, but he’s going to continue to get opportunities with us,” Anthopoulos said.
Kelenic will likely get a shot to prove himself early in the season. However, once the Braves are at full strength, particularly with Acuña back, Kelenic’s opportunities may dwindle. If he falters again, those chances could quickly evaporate.
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