Merrill Kelly is coming back to the Arizona Diamondbacks. According to a report from Ken Rosenthal, it’s a two-year, $40 million deal. The deal returns the pitcher to the Diamondbacks, where he has spent nearly his entire major league career.
Wanted to Return
Kelly grew up and played his high school baseball in Scottsdale. He then went to Yavapai College in Prescott before finishing his college career at Arizona State. At last season’s trade deadline, Kelly was traded to the Texas Rangers. Kelly stated that he had no hard feelings about being traded. In fact, the fan favorite expressed a desire to finish his career in Arizona if given the opportunity. In addition, the Diamondbacks were optimistic they could bring him back.
Benefit to Any Staff
The right-handed Kelly is a benefit to any pitching staff. His ability to spin the baseball in various ways makes him an effective pitcher. He brings a mix of change-ups, curve-balls, cutters, a four-seam fast ball, and a sinker with every start. His change-up is one of the most effective and practical pitches in the game today. Kelly also brings veteran leadership and experience to the team. He uses both as an advisor to young pitchers. His competitive and driven approach to the game serves as an example to younger players.
Kelly’s Path to the MLB
While Kelly brings talent and drive to the team, his path to MLB is a bit unique. He did not make his MLB debut until he was 30. He was drafted out of high school by the Baltimore Orioles in 2007 and two years later, by the then-Cleveland Indians. Kelly, however, chose to attend college rather than sign with either team. The Tampa Bay Rays drafted him in 2010. He subsequently spent four years in the MLB’s minor league system. Then, he pitched in South Korea’s KBO League. He signed with the Diamondbacks in December 2018 and made his MLB debut in 2019.
Valued Starter
Kelly is seen as a valued starter. He consistently works a low walk rate and gets you the necessary innings. Last year, he worked at least five innings in 28 of 32 starts and at least six innings 19 times. His ability to perform under pressure and provide consistent outings has made him a reliable starter.
2026 Opening Day Starter
Kelly will be considered the Opening Day starter for the Diamondbacks this year. He rejoins a rotation that already includes the recently signed Michael Soroka. He reunites with Ryne Nelson, Brandon Pfaadt, and Eduardo Rodriguez in the starting rotation.
Kelly Needed
Merrill Kelly is returning to the Arizona Diamondbacks, who need pitching. This won’t stop the team from pursuing other starters through free agency or trades, given their need for more starters. The Diamondbacks will most likely acquire another starter before spring training begins. However, having Kelly back certainly makes their starting rotation look better and stronger. His experience, consistency, pitching arsenal, and mentorship will go a long way.
Jim Marshall
Jim Marshall has been writing about sports for over 10 years. He started his sports career in radio, co-hosting and producing several sports-talk radio programs in Phoenix. He has covered local, college, and national sports, but specializes in MLB. His articles have appeared in several sports-reporting sites, including our own Legends On Deck. Jim is also a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America (IBWAA).
