Former Braves Outfielder Jarred Kelenic Signs Minor League Deal with Yankees After Free Agency Move

SAN DIEGO, CA – MARCH 28: Jarred Kelenic #24 of the Atlanta Braves reacts while rounding the bases during the game between the Atlanta Braves and the San Diego Padres at Petco Park on Friday, March 28, 2025 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Vincent Mizzoni/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

MLB Photos via Getty Images

After parting ways with the Texas Rangers earlier this week through a mutual option for free agency, former Atlanta Braves outfielder Jarred Kelenic has found a new landing spot, signing a minor league contract with the New York Yankees.

Kelenic, who appeared in 131 games for the Braves in 2024, has been assigned to the Yankees’ Triple-A affiliate, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, as the organization looks to provide him an opportunity to rebuild his major league career.

Originally acquired by Atlanta from the Seattle Mariners in December 2023, Kelenic was initially expected to serve as the Braves’ starting left fielder. However, a subpar spring performance led to a platoon arrangement, and injuries throughout the outfield eventually elevated his role. Despite moving into center field and the leadoff spot during the 2024 season, his .231/.286/.393 batting line was not enough to secure a long-term position in Atlanta’s lineup.

His 2025 campaign proved even more challenging, as he spent the majority of the season at Triple-A and appeared in just 24 games for the Braves, posting a .167/.231/.300 slash line with two home runs.

The Yankees’ outfield presents a competitive environment, with Cody Bellinger, Trent Grisham, and Spencer Jones establishing themselves as the primary trio. Heliot Ramos serves in a fourth outfield role, while top prospect Jasson Dominguez remains at Triple-A. With Aaron Judge nearing a return from injury, opportunities for Kelenic to break into the major league lineup may be limited initially, though the September roster expansion could create additional possibilities.

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