Merrill Kelly continues to be one of the most consistent veteran arms in Major League Baseball. From a mid-season trade move to strong 2025 performance metrics, to offseason contract developments — here’s a comprehensive look at Kelly’s profile in 2025 and beyond.
Trade History & Career Moves
In 2025, right-hander Merrill Kelly was traded from the Arizona Diamondbacks to the Texas Rangers at the MLB trade deadline. Texas sent top prospects Kohl Drake, Mitch Bratt, and David Hagaman to Arizona in exchange for Kelly — a deal designed to bolster the Rangers’ rotation for a playoff push.
The trade reunited Kelly with a contending staff that already featured veterans like Jacob deGrom and Nathan Eovaldi — adding depth and experience to a strong starting group.
In December 2025, Kelly agreed to a two-year, $40 million contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks, marking a return to his former club where he spent the majority of his MLB career.
2025 Performance Stats
Across the 2025 season with both teams combined:
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Win–Loss Record: 12-9
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ERA: 3.52
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Strikeouts: 167
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WHIP: 1.11
These figures reflect a reliable presence in the rotation, ranking solidly among qualified MLB starters in multiple pitching categories.
According to FanGraphs, Kelly still grades as an above-average veteran starter with strong strike percentage, command, and a ground-ball profile that helps limit damage even without overpowering velocity.
FanGraphs Insights
FanGraphs projections for Kelly heading into future seasons highlight his value:
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A projected strikeout rate near 21.6%
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Expected ERA/FIP around 4.10
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Durability and innings-eating capability
FanGraphs notes that Kelly’s success is built on pitch sequencing, command, and guile rather than velocity — traits that often translate into consistent results for veteran arms.
2025 Splits Overview
Kelly’s 2025 split performances show how he handled different situations:
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Home/Away: Strong innings both on the road and at home
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vs. Right-Handed Batters: Slight edge with solid results
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vs. Left-Handed Batters: Competitive numbers reflecting good control
Detailed splits show he maintained effectiveness regardless of opponent handedness and situations — contributing to his overall value as a starter.
Next Start & Outlook
Because it’s the offseason, there is no active “next start” scheduled for Kelly at the moment. However, with his December two-year deal with the Diamondbacks, he’s projected to be among the team’s opening rotation leaders for the 2026 season, potentially in a top-2 slot due to his experience and consistency.
As the MLB schedule isn’t set for 2026 regular season starts yet, a specific opponent and date for his first outing will be finalized closer to Opening Day.
Summary & Highlights
Merrill Kelly remains an MLB starting pitcher with:
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A high-value veteran profile bolstered by command and reliability.
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A mid-season 2025 trade that brought him to the Rangers.
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Solid 2025 stats with competitive ERA, WHIP, and innings totals.
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FanGraphs projections forecasting continued above-average contributions.
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A newly signed two-year contract with the Diamondbacks for 2026-27.
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A likely key role in Arizona’s 2026 rotation.
With a long track record of consistency and polished pitching skills, Kelly is one of the more dependable arms available in today’s free agent and contract landscape.
