In a recent trade, former top prospect for the Seattle Mariners, Evan White, has found himself in the minor leagues after being traded to the Atlanta Braves last week. Despite the inevitability of this outcome, it is undoubtedly disappointing for White, who hoped to secure a spot on the major league roster during spring training.
White’s assignment to the minor leagues was anticipated, especially considering the financial dynamics involved in the Braves’ acquisition of him. The trade was primarily structured to facilitate the Braves’ deal for Jarred Kelenic, and it was evident that White’s contract obligations, with $17 million still owed to him under the previously signed extension with the Mariners, would dissuade other teams from claiming him off waivers.
While White technically has enough service time (three-plus years) to reject the minor league assignment, he lacks the required five years of service time to retain the remainder of his salary. Consequently, he is expected to accept the assignment and join Triple-A Gwinnett for the start of the 2024 season.
A first-round pick in 2017 from the University of Kentucky, White was initially viewed as a cornerstone in the Mariners’ rebuilding efforts. He signed a six-year, $24 million contract, inclusive of three option years, before making his MLB debut. Notably, he earned a Gold Glove at first base in the American League during the shortened 2020 season, playing 54 games.
However, White’s journey faced obstacles, with a hip flexor injury sidelining him after just 30 games into the 2021 season. Subsequent surgery for a sports hernia in March 2022 and setbacks during rehab assignments complicated his return. Despite starting the 2023 season with optimism at AAA, another setback occurred.
The trade to the Braves, alongside Jarred Kelenic and Marco Gonzales, marked a new chapter for White. At 27 years old, he still has the potential to contribute significantly in the big leagues, but the recent development suggests that his return to the majors may not materialize at the beginning of the 2024 season. Nevertheless, there remains hope for White’s future in professional baseball, and his journey continues with the Braves’ minor league affiliate.
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