The Arizona Diamondbacks are set to finalize a significant two-year contract with right-handed pitcher Merrill Kelly, reportedly worth $40 million. This deal, covered by insider Ken Rosenthal from The Athletic, is contingent upon Kelly passing a physical examination.
About Merrill Kelly
Merrill Kelly, aged 37, has an extensive history with the Diamondbacks, having spent a considerable part of his major league career with the team. Originally drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays in the eighth round of the 2010 MLB Draft, Kelly made his major league debut with the Diamondbacks in 2019. Before joining the Diamondbacks, he played four seasons in South Korea with the SK Wyverns, which has since been renamed the SSG Landers.
Career Performance
Kelly’s initial season in the majors featured a league-average ERA over 32 starts. However, he has since emerged as one of the more reliable mid-rotation pitchers across the league. Since the beginning of the 2022 season, he has posted an impressive 3.47 ERA (120 ERA+) over 108 starts, showcasing his ability to strike out 23.1% of batters while maintaining a walk rate of 7.7%. His Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) stands at 3.81, demonstrating his effectiveness on the mound.
Consistent Contributions
While his advanced metrics suggest he may not be a prototypical ace, Kelly’s durability is commendable. He has pitched at least 175 innings in three of the last four seasons, proving to be a valuable asset to the Diamondbacks. Notably, during the club’s 2023 World Series run, he achieved a remarkable 2.25 ERA, further solidifying his connection with Arizona fans.
Contract Details
- Player: Merrill Kelly
- Team: Arizona Diamondbacks
- Contract Duration: 2 Years
- Total Value: $40 Million
- Condition: Pending physical examination
This signing reflects the Diamondbacks’ commitment to strengthening their pitching staff as they look toward future seasons.
