In an effort to strengthen their outfield, the Atlanta Braves are welcoming back slugging outfielder Adam Duvall with a $3 million contract for the upcoming 2024 season.
Duvall, at 35 years old, is set to share playing time in left field with Jarred Kelenic. The Braves recently acquired Kelenic from the Seattle Mariners, though his performance in spring training has left something to be desired, prompting the need for a platoon system.
Kelenic’s spring training performance was underwhelming, with only three hits out of 34 at-bats, resulting in three RBIs, one stolen base, and nine strikeouts. This demonstrated the need for a more reliable right-handed batter, leading the Braves to sign Duvall.
Previously with the Boston Red Sox, Duvall batted .247, hitting 21 home runs and driving in 58 runs despite being limited to just 92 games due to a fractured wrist which he incurred trying to make a catch.
Duvall’s tenure with the Braves marks his third with the team, notable for a significant contribution to their 2021 World Series championship following a midseason trade from the Miami Marlins. During that season, Duvall shone with over 30 home runs, an NL-leading 113 RBIs, and a Gold Glove.
The journeyman outfielder’s career began with stints in San Francisco and Cincinnati before he was initially traded to Atlanta by the Reds in 2018. Prior to the 2021 season, he had a brief period with the Marlins, only to be traded back to Atlanta. Last season, signed by Boston, Duvall showed his power quickly before his injury on April 9 sidelined him. Upon returning, he continued to provide home run power, being among the AL’s best in home runs per at-bats.
With Kelenic, a former top prospect from the New York Mets who has yet to fully meet expectations, the Braves originally planned for full-time play. However, his spring training challenges led them to acquire Duvall as a complement, enabling them to ease Kelenic’s exposure, especially against left-handed pitching. The Braves completed the deal for Kelenic as part of their off-season acquisitions in a significant trade with the budget-conscious Seattle Mariners.
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FAQ:
- Why have the Braves decided to platoon Adam Duvall with Jarred Kelenic?
The Braves have opted for a platoon strategy due to Kelenic’s poor performance during spring training and Duvall’s proven power-hitting abilities, especially valuable against left-handed pitchers. - What accomplishments has Adam Duvall achieved in his career?
Duvall has hit over 30 home runs in multiple seasons, led the NL in RBIs in 2021, and has earned a Gold Glove Award for his defensive abilities in the outfield. - What were the terms of Adam Duvall’s injury?
Adam Duvall sustained a fractured left wrist on April 9 last season while attempting to make a diving catch. This injury kept him away from the field for two months. - How did Jarred Kelenic come to join the Atlanta Braves?
Kelenic was acquired by the Braves from the Seattle Mariners in a five-player deal during the offseason.
Conclusion:
The Atlanta Braves are setting the stage for a more dynamic outfield by bringing Adam Duvall back into the fold and pairing him up with Jarred Kelenic. This platoon system should help mitigate Kelenic’s difficulty in adjusting to major league pitching while allowing Duvall to leverage his power-hitting skills. As the Braves aim to contend for another World Series title, this strategic addition could be a significant step toward another successful season.