Kelly emphasized that the responsibility to ignite the offense does not rest solely on the newly promoted outfielder.
"He had a great spring training and he has a really exciting skill set he brings to the table.
The power, he’s got surprising speed, has a really good arm and plays really good outfield defense. Excited to have him here," Kelly said.
The manager hopes to alleviate external expectations as Garcia transitions back into major league competition.
"I think that goes for everybody — it’s not on any one single hitter, it’s not on any one single pitcher.
It’s a team collective," Kelly said.
Kelly plans to balance Garcia's playing time with necessary rest days to manage his recovery from the recent back injury.
"Hopefully Garcia doesn’t feel that [pressure]," Kelly added.
The coaching staff believes Garcia's familiarity with the roster from spring training will ease his integration into the lineup.
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"I think when you get called up, you feel that pressure anyways of being up here, but I feel that’s where that comfortability of having spring training, being around the guys and having success in spring will help him relax and feel a part of it rather than feeling like he has to be the guy," Kelly said.
