WATCH: Seattle Mariners' Jarred Kelenic Homers in Fourth Straight Game
Seattle Mariners outfielder Jarred Kelenic continued his blistering start to the season on Friday night, homering in his fourth consecutive game.
Kelenic took Colorado Rockies starter Austin Gomber deep to centerfield in the bottom of the second inning, depositing a slider past the 401-foot sign.
The home run was significant because it came off a left-handed pitcher. The Mariners have tried to protect Kelenic from lefties this season in an effort to give him the best chance to succeed.
You can watch the home run below:
This home run continues a string of strong play from Kelenic, who homered in each game of the previous series against the Chicago Cubs. Kelenic homered on Monday night in the bottom of the ninth inning, hitting this ball off the Wrigley Field scoreboard.
He hit a shot to deep left center field on Tuesday and on Wednesday, hit one 482 feet, which can be seen here.
Hopefully this week is the start of the turning point for Kelenic in his young career. The 23-year-old was the centerpiece of the Mariners-Mets trade that sent Robinson Cano and Edwin Diaz to New York before the 2019 season.
Kelenic made his debut in 2021 but struggled to gain traction in both 2021 and 2022. He played 93 games in 2021, hitting .181 and played 54 games in 2022, hitting .141.
At this point in the season, Kelenic is hitting .368 with the four home runs and seven RBI. He's also stolen two bases and has posted a 1.218 OPS.
Mariners President of Baseball Operations Jerry Dipoto recently spoke on the reasons for his early success.
Along with reigning American League Rookie of the Year Julio Rodriguez, the Mariners have one of the most exciting young outfields in all of baseball.
At the time of this posting, the Mariners lead the Rockies 2-1 in the top of the third inning.
The two teams will play Saturday at 9:40 p.m. ET.
