White Sox sign former top prospect Jarred Kelenic to minor-league deal
The White Sox have taken chances on former top prospects who didn't pan out in their first go-around in the majors. They're taking a crack at another.
The Sox on Wednesday signed Jarred Kelenic to a minor-league deal with an invite for spring training. The Mets drafted Kelenic sixth overall in 2018 but traded him to the Mariners that December in a deal for Robinson Cano and Edwin Diaz.
But things haven't clicked for Kelenic in the majors. After three seasons, the Mariners traded him to the Braves in December 2023. Kelenic continued to struggle, batting .222/.279/.381 in two seasons with the Braves. He played just 24 games for them in 2025.
In 407 games, Kelenic has batted .211/.282/.376. He's still only 26, but time is running out for him to tap into the talent that made him a coveted prospect.
The Sox have a need in the outfield. Left fielder Andrew Benintendi likely will be the designated hitter more often next season, and right field is wide-open after the team non-tendered Mike Tauchman.
With a revamped coaching staff, the Sox will see if they can turn around another top prospect who has floundered in the majors.