Jarred Kelenic is displaying a noticeable change in demeanour since leaving the Seattle Mariners. The constant pressure that seemed to follow him on the baseball field is gone.
He now plays for the White Sox. During workouts at Rate Field, Kelenic showed a lightness, not overreacting to mishits and smiling often.
A Newfound Perspective
Kelenic said he’s in a really good place now. He added that he’s done a ton of work on his personal life. He is trying to enjoy the game and be consistent.
In the past, playing the Mariners would have increased his tension. He would have felt the need to prove they were wrong to trade him.
Instead, he was seen hugging and catching up with former teammates, coaches, and training staff.
Noticeable Changes
Kelenic said it had been a long time and it was fun to see everyone. He described it as a good feeling.
His former teammates and coaches have noticed the changes in Kelenic. They felt that tension in the past and are happy he’s found some peace.
Manager Dan Wilson said it was great to see him and connect with him. He added that Kelenic had a big smile on his face and seems to be in a good spot mentally, which sometimes comes with age, and that he seems looser.
Living Up to Potential
Kelenic’s MLB career has not yet lived up to the expectations that were placed upon him. This was after being acquired by the Mariners prior to the 2019 season. He was the main player received in the trade that sent Robinson Canó and Edwin Díaz to the Mets.
- A first-round pick in the 2018 draft (No. 6 overall) by the Mets.
- Kelenic rose quickly up the prospect charts with Seattle, reaching as high as No. 4 in baseball going into the 2021 season.
- He made his MLB debut at age 21 on May 13.
He debuted after only six minor-league games.
Struggles and Frustrations
Like many players, he struggled to adjust to the highest level of competition in baseball. He couldn’t process the failure and allowed it to affect him. This led to further struggles.
Over parts of the next three seasons, he moved between Triple-A and the big leagues. He showed signs of being the player he wanted to be, but couldn’t properly process the anger when he failed. He seethed at strikeouts and raged at missed opportunities.
That rage reached a low point on July 19, 2023. He kicked a water cooler out of frustration after striking out in a game, fracturing his left foot.
He said he felt terrible.