Roster Watch: Can Jarred Kelenic Claim An Opening Day Spot?

The White Sox had another impressive offensive performance to start Spring Training, as they beat the Seattle Mariners 12-10. This brings the White Sox record to 4-1, as they have been very good over their first five games.

This Spring Training is a bit different from the last few years, as there is a bit more set in stone on the 26-man roster. However, there are certainly still some key positional battles. For the first time in what seems like a very a long time, there aren’t roster battles at practically every position, as the White Sox likely have their starting lineup locked up. However, there are still a few backup spots in the infield and outfield up for grabs, as well as a few spots in the bullpen.

As we get closer to the season starting, we will look at each fringe roster player and their chances to make the team out of Spring Training. The first player we will take a look at is outfielder Jarred Kelenic.

Kelenic was a former consensus top-20 prospect in all of baseball and has been productive in the major leagues. However, Kelenic struggled in his first two major leauge seasons, as he hit .181 in his rookie year and .141 in his sophomore year. But, Kelenic figured something out in 2023, as he slashed .253/.327/.419, adding 11 home runs, 49 RBIs, and 13 stolen bases. This was good for 2.1 WAR according to Baseball Reference.

Kelenic was then traded to the Atlanta Braves, where he has spent parts of the last two seasons. Kelenic had a decent year in 2024, as he hit .231, adding 15 home runs and 45 RBIs. While the overall season wasn’t as good as 2023, he still showed his power potential from the left side. Unfortunately for Kelenic, 2025 didn’t go his way, as he hit .167 in just 24 major league games. Now joining the White Sox, he looks to get back to his 2023 self.

Kelenic joins a crowded outfield for the White Sox, as they have currently roster veterans Andrew Benintendi and Austin Hays. Additionally, they have a few younger players like Luisangel Acuna, Brooks Baldwin, and Everson Pereira. Benintendi, Acuna, and Hays will likely be the starting outfield, but there is room for one or two more players on the roster.

Baldwin has gotten off to a tremendous start to Spring Training and has familiarity with the coaching staff. Pereira is out of options and hasn’t gotten in a game this Spring due to an injury. If the White Sox view Brooks Baldwin as a true utility player, there could be room for one more outfielder on the roster. This decision would likely come down to Pereira or Kelenic.

Since the White Sox traded for Pereira, he may have the upper hand, but a strong Spring Training from Kelenic could change that, especially if Pereira doesn’t play at all. Kelenic has gotten off to a decent start so far, as he is 1 for 4 with a .400 OBP and a stolen base.

Jarred Kelenic with a single to right. 107 mph exit velo.
He’s on the podcast tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/zrswFiEMRU

— Chuck Garfien (@ChuckGarfien) February 23, 2026

Time will tell, but I would give Kelenic a 50/50 shot at the roster. He has the draft pedigree and the major league production to back up a spot on this roster, but he will certainly have to outperform a few players. If Pereira opens the season on the IL, Kelenic could get a chance to prove himself in his absence, opening himself up an opportunity to get more playing time in Chicago.