Merrill Kelly is set to rejoin the Arizona Diamondbacks after a brief stint with the Texas Rangers. He has agreed to a two-year, $40 million contract with Arizona, according to reports. Kelly's return bolsters the Diamondbacks' starting rotation as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Diamondbacks Rotation Takes Shape
Kelly is expected to reclaim his position at the forefront of the Diamondbacks' pitching staff. The team has also recently added Michael Soroka on a one-year, $7.5 million deal to improve their pitching depth. The projected starting rotation currently includes:
- Ryne Nelson (RHP)
- Brandon Pfaadt (RHP)
- Eduardo Rodriguez (LHP)
- Merrill Kelly (RHP)
- Michael Soroka (RHP)
Kelly, now 37, previously spent over six seasons with Arizona, after a successful stint in South Korea revitalized his career. During his time with the Diamondbacks, he accumulated a 3.74 ERA across 162 starts. He was also a key player in the team's impressive 2023 World Series run, posting a 2.25 ERA with 28 strikeouts in 24 postseason innings.
Kelly's Strengths and Impact
While not known for overpowering velocity, Kelly is recognized for his ability to consistently deliver quality innings. His changeup is considered his best pitch, and he relies on precise location and effective off-speed offerings to succeed. Last season, he combined for a 12-9 record with a 3.42 ERA and 167 strikeouts in 32 starts between the Diamondbacks and Rangers.
The Rangers acquired Kelly from Arizona in exchange for three minor league pitchers: Kohl Drake (LHP), Mitch Bratt (LHP), and David Hagaman (RHP). The move was intended to bolster Texas's playoff push, which ultimately fell short. Arizona, while parting ways with Kelly and other key players like Eugenio Suarez and Josh Naylor, remained competitive and nearly secured a playoff spot, finishing with an 80-82 record.
Throughout his seven-year MLB career, Kelly holds a 65-53 record with a 3.77 ERA and 911 strikeouts in 1,008⅓ innings pitched.
Offseason Moves and Potential Trades
Prior to re-signing Kelly, the Diamondbacks secured veteran catcher James McCann to a one-year contract to back up Gabriel Moreno. The organization is reportedly considering trading second baseman Ketel Marte. Marte, a 32-year-old All-Star, is owed $102.5 million over the next six seasons and could bring a significant return for Arizona.
FAQs
Why did Merrill Kelly return to the Arizona Diamondbacks?
Merrill Kelly is rejoining the Diamondbacks on a two-year, $40 million deal to bolster their starting rotation. He previously had a successful six-season stint with Arizona and was a key player in their 2023 World Series run.
What does the Diamondbacks' starting rotation look like with Merrill Kelly back?
The projected starting rotation includes Ryne Nelson, Brandon Pfaadt, Eduardo Rodriguez, Merrill Kelly, and Michael Soroka. Kelly is expected to reclaim his position at the forefront of the pitching staff.
What are the Diamondbacks' other offseason moves besides re-signing Kelly?
The Diamondbacks signed veteran catcher James McCann and are reportedly considering trading second baseman Ketel Marte. Marte could bring a significant return for Arizona.
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