Yet another ex Braves pitcher from the Jarred Kelenic trade suffering from injury

Cole Phillips’ Tommy John surgery was reported less than a month ago, on February 16th.

This was crucial since Phillips was the major prospect returning to Seattle after the Atlanta Braves acquired Jarred Kelenic.

That transaction was primarily a salary dump for Seattle. They moved Marco Gonzales and Evan White to Kelenic in order to save money on their salary. In return, the Braves returned Cole Phillips, their 2022 second-round pick. The Mariners also obtained Jackson Kowar, whom the Braves acquired earlier this offseason in exchange for Kyle Wright.

Jackson Kowar will undergo Tommy John surgery as well.

Mariners' Jackson Kowar To Undergo Tommy John Surgery https://t.co/KbAulqqKvP pic.twitter.com/vtf7L1rTQ6

— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) March 10, 2024

Kowar has struggled immensely in his tenure in the major leagues, but this is still a harsh break for Seattle, as it means both pitchers acquired in the trade will be out for an extended period. Phillips will have his second operation and has yet to pitch a professional inning since being chosen.

Add in the fact that the trade was poorly received by many Mariners fans because it was mostly a salary dump, which meant they were giving up on a former top prospect, and the transaction becomes even more difficult to swallow.

The Braves were able to shift some of the compensation they incurred for Gonzales and White, but they were seeking for a low-cost move to perhaps find their left fielder for the next few years. Now that both pitchers have been sidelined for more than a year with Tommy John, the Braves’ move for Kelenic may be viewed as extremely cost-effective.

If Kelenic provides the value that Eddie Rosario did for the Braves, the team can consider it a win. Imagine if Kevin Seitzer can unlock a little more of Kelenic’s swing potential.