Seattle Mariners: 5 takeaways from opening week of Cactus League

3. A temporary setback for star prospect

Jarred Kelenic has had more than his fair share of publicity of late, stemming from some of the comments made by Mather. More specifically, the claim that a delay in his call-up to the Majors was compromised by the decision not to sign a long-term extension with the Mariners last year.

In reality, the delay was more likely linked to the pandemic, with Kelenic yet to play at the Triple-A level in his brief professional career. Regardless, he will now have to accept the likelihood he won’t be on the opening day roster for the 2021 regular season and can no longer attempt to blame Seattle.

This is because the 21-year-old suffered an injury during Friday’s game with the White Sox. An MRI revealed a left adductor muscle strain which, while not serious, theoretically means a recovery period of at least three weeks (if not longer).

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Kelenic plans to return in seven days, but you can expect the M’s to be more cautious with their young prospect. The outfielder may not lack in confidence, but this is one time he will be better served accepting the expertise, i.e. medical opinion, of others.

NEXT: THE BATTLE FOR LAST SPOT IN THE ROTATION