NEW YORK (AP) – Jarred Kelenic has embraced his new role at the top of the Atlanta Braves’ lineup.
Recently elevated to leadoff in place of the injured star Ronald Acuña Jr., Kelenic smashed a home run and drove in two runs during Sunday’s 3-1 victory over the New York Yankees.
Since moving to the leadoff spot, Kelenic boasts an impressive .324 batting average with three home runs and six RBIs over eight games.
“Some guys see that as an opportunity, and some guys respond to the opportunities they get,” remarked Braves manager Brian Snitker.
Overall this season, Kelenic holds a .270 batting average with seven home runs and 21 RBIs. He started 22 games batting ninth, 15 games hitting eighth, and nine games in the seventh spot.
“I approach each at-bat individually and let the game dictate my approach,” explained Kelenic.
At age 24, Kelenic, a former sixth overall draft pick by the Mets in 2018, joined the Braves this season after stints with the Mariners, where he battled through varied performances and a notable midseason injury in 2021.
Primarily facing right-handed pitchers, Kelenic has thrived with a .275 average in 160 at-bats against them, compared to .250 against lefties in 36 at-bats. His contributions, including a pivotal home run off Nestor Cortes in the third inning, helped secure the win for the Braves behind pitcher Max Fried’s solid outing.
Kelenic’s transition to center field and the leadoff role coincided with a resurgence for the Braves, who have won eight of their last ten games, demonstrating a renewed team dynamic and resilience in their recent series victories.
“It’s been a significant series for us,” acknowledged Snitker. “We’re starting to play more like ourselves. There’s still room for improvement, but we’re moving in the right direction.”
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