Merrill Kelly-Arizona Diamondbacks Agree On 2-Year Deal
Sometimes you just have to go back to where it all started. In a move that’s warming the hearts of snakes fans everywhere (and probably confusing a few Rangers fans), Merrill Kelly is officially heading back to the Arizona Diamondbacks.
According to reports from Ken Rosenthal and MLB.com, the right-hander is finalizing a two-year, $40 million contract to return to the desert.
Now, if you’re experiencing a bit of déjà vu, don’t worry, you’re not crazy. Kelly spent nearly seven seasons grinding it out for Arizona before getting shipped off to Texas at the trade deadline just last year. But like a boomerang with a devastating changeup, he’s coming right back.
Why This Move Makes Sense For Arizona
Let’s be honest, the D-backs needed this. After a season that felt like a rollercoaster designed by a mad scientist, bringing back a reliable arm like Kelly is a stabilizing move.
Sure, the price tag is a bit steeper than some initial estimates. But in today’s market? That’s the cost of doing business for stability. Kelly isn’t just some guy; he’s a workhorse who knows the clubhouse, knows the city, and frankly, just belongs in Sedona Red.
Before he was traded, Kelly made it crystal clear where his heart was. “The front office knows how fond I am of being here and being home,” he said back in July. It looks like the feeling is mutual.
What Kelly Brings To the Mound
At 37, Kelly isn’t exactly a spring chicken, but don’t let the age fool you. He’s like that vintage pickup truck that just keeps running no matter how many miles you put on it.
He’s not going to blow you away with 100 mph heat. He’s not going to be the guy making Jomboy breakdowns every week for some physics-defying slider. But he is going to give you innings. He’s going to battle.
His stats tell the story of consistency:
- Career ERA: A respectable 3.77 over seven seasons.
- 2025 Performance: A combined 12-9 record with a 3.52 ERA across 32 starts.
- The “Stuff”: He relies heavily on a changeup that makes batters look silly, boasting one of the best chase rates in the bigs.
Basically, he’s the guy you want taking the ball every fifth day when you need to save your bullpen from imploding.
The Big Picture For the D-backs
This signing puts the D-backs‘ rotation in a much clearer spot for 2026. With Kelly back in the fold and the recent addition of Michael Soroka, the starting five is starting to look like a legitimate unit again.
Of course, the payroll is creeping up, likely hitting around $169 million, but that shows the front office is serious about contending. They aren’t just looking to participate; they want to get back to the big dance.
