Mon Apr 28 17:00:00 UTC 2025: **Braves Demote Kelenic, Sign Rosario in Roster Shakeup**
ATLANTA, GA – In a surprising roster move, the Atlanta Braves announced Monday the demotion of outfielder Jarred Kelenic to Triple-A Gwinnett and the signing of veteran outfielder Eddie Rosario to a major league contract. To make room on the 40-man roster, right-handed pitcher Zach Thompson was designated for assignment.
Kelenic’s demotion follows a dismal start to the 2025 season, where he’s batting .167/.231/.300 with a staggering 35.4% strikeout rate. His struggles extend beyond this year; since joining Atlanta in a complex trade with Seattle in the 2023-24 offseason, Kelenic has posted a .222/.279/.381 line with a 30.4% strikeout rate. The Braves, currently in last place in the NL East, determined they could no longer afford to wait for Kelenic to improve, especially with players like Alex Verdugo and Eli White exceeding expectations.
The Braves acquired Kelenic in a deal that saw them take on significant financial burdens from Seattle, including the contracts of Evan White and Marco Gonzales. This move, while costing Atlanta over $20 million, ultimately hasn’t yielded the desired results.
Rosario, 33, returns to Atlanta for a fifth season. He previously played for the Braves in 2021, contributing significantly to their World Series victory. While his performance has declined since then, he provides the Braves with another outfield option, potentially platooning with Eli White until Ronald Acuña Jr.’s return from the injured list. Rosario’s signing comes after a brief stint with the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he was designated for assignment. The Braves hope Rosario can provide a needed offensive boost.
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