{"id":32298,"date":"2025-02-08T01:24:49","date_gmt":"2025-02-08T01:24:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sportnews.azontree.com\/?p=32298"},"modified":"2025-02-08T01:24:49","modified_gmt":"2025-02-08T01:24:49","slug":"atlanta-braves-outfield-puzzle-how-jared-kelenic-brian-de-la-cruz-and-others-fit-into-the-2025-roster-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sportnews.azontree.com\/?p=32298","title":{"rendered":"Atlanta Braves Outfield Puzzle: How Jared Kelenic, Brian De La Cruz, and Others Fit into the 2025 Roster"},"content":{"rendered":"
As the Atlanta Braves prepare for the 2025 season, their outfield depth remains a key storyline. With Ronald Acu\u00f1a Jr. sidelined to start the year, Jared Kelenic is slated to take over in right field, but his uncertain offensive production raises questions about his long-term role.<\/div>\n
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As the\u00a0Atlanta Braves\u00a0finalize their roster for the 2025 season, the outfield picture remains a focal point. With\u00a0Ronald Acu\u00f1a Jr. sidelined to start the year, Jared Kelenic is expected to take over right field. However, his low offensive projections raise questions about his long-term role, leaving room for potential adjustments as the season unfolds.<\/p>\n

Kelenic\u2019s performance in the early months will be a key factor in determining whether he solidifies his spot or if the Braves turn to alternatives. One such option is\u00a0Brian De La Cruz<\/strong>, who is projected to start the season in Triple-A Gwinnett but could be called up if Kelenic struggles. De La Cruz has remaining minor-league options, making him a flexible depth piece should the Braves seek an offensive spark.<\/p>\n

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Meanwhile,\u00a0Eli White<\/strong>\u00a0is expected to serve as the team\u2019s fourth outfielder, primarily due to his defensive versatility. While his offensive projections are modest, White\u2019s ability to cover all three outfield spots and his lack of minor-league options make him a likely inclusion on the Opening Day roster.<\/p>\n

Beyond the immediate roster,\u00a0Carlos Rodriguez and Connor Capel<\/strong>\u00a0are set to begin the season in Gwinnett. Rodriguez has minor-league options, while Capel is on a non-roster deal, giving the Braves additional flexibility should they need reinforcements later in the season.<\/p>\n

Ultimately, the Braves\u2019 outfield depth will be tested early in 2025. Kelenic\u2019s ability to step up in Acu\u00f1a\u2019s absence, De La Cruz\u2019s readiness for a call-up, and White\u2019s defensive reliability will all play a role in shaping the team\u2019s outfield strategy as they navigate the first half of the season.<\/p>\n