Joe Kelly, a former pitcher for the Boston Red Sox, is closing the chapter on his baseball career. He shared this news during an appearance on the “Baseball Isn’t Boring” podcast. Kelly stated that he is no longer pitching, although he hesitated to label it a retirement.
At 37, Kelly’s last Major League game was with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2024, where he secured his third World Series title. After going unsigned in 2025, he decided it’s time to step away from the sport. His professional journey spanned 13 years, from 2012 to 2024, during which he played for four different teams.
A Brief Overview of Joe Kelly’s MLB Career
- Years Active: 2012 – 2024
- Teams:
- St. Louis Cardinals
- Boston Red Sox
- Los Angeles Dodgers
- World Series Titles: 3
- Primary Role: Reliever
Notable Achievements
Kelly’s most distinguished period occurred during his time with the Red Sox from 2014 to 2018. Initially struggling as a starter, he transitioned to the bullpen, achieving significant success. In the 2018 postseason, Kelly recorded a remarkable 0.51 ERA over 11 1/3 innings, striking out 13 batters and allowing only one earned run. He led the team with 73 relief appearances that season, contributing to their World Series victory.
After the thrilling 2018 Fall Classic against the Dodgers, Kelly joined the Los Angeles team and added two more championships in 2020 and 2024. Known for his fiery personality and competitiveness, he garnered a reputation for getting under the skin of opponents, making him a memorable figure in recent Red Sox history.
Final Thoughts
Joe Kelly’s retirement from active play marks the end of an era for the athlete known for his unique character and presence on the mound. While he may not prefer the label of ‘retirement,’ his contributions to the game and his memorable performances will leave a lasting legacy in Major League Baseball.
