According to a source, hard-throwing reliever Joe Kelly is on the verge of finalizing a deal to rejoin the Los Angeles Dodgers. The impending agreement, which is subject to a physical examination, is expected to be for a term of one year. Reports suggest that the deal is imminent, with FanSided being the first to break the news. Kelly, 35, is set to embark on his third tenure with the Dodgers, a team he originally joined in December 2018 on a three-year, $25 million contract. As a key contributor to the 2020 championship-winning team, Kelly proved his worth and played an instrumental role in their success.
Known for his power pitching, Kelly’s ability to throw well over 100 mph makes him a formidable presence on the mound. He possesses an extensive repertoire of strikeout pitches, but his command can be erratic at times, rendering him an unpredictable force out of the bullpen. Since transitioning to a full-time reliever in 2017, Kelly has displayed promising statistics, amassing a 3.98 ERA with 354 strikeouts in just over 305 innings of work. However, his walk percentage during this period places him 10th among those with at least 300 appearances. Nevertheless, Kelly showcased his dominance during the 2018 World Series while in the Boston Red Sox bullpen. In the 2021 season, he further solidified his prowess, maintaining a commendable 2.86 ERA and an impressive 0.98 WHIP. Nevertheless, he has experienced a slight dip in performance recently, as reflected by his elevated 5.07 ERA over the past two years.
Despite any fluctuations in his on-field performance, Joe Kelly has undoubtedly made an impact off the field as well. His memorable pouty face, immortalized after striking out Carlos Correa amidst the infamous Houston Astros sign-stealing scandal, has become a beloved image associated with his fiery competitive spirit. In addition, his choice of attire during the Dodgers’ White House visit, namely a striking mariachi jacket, has only further endeared him to the city of Los Angeles. These peculiar expressions and fashion choices have firmly established Kelly as a cult figure in the eyes of the fans.
Joe Kelly’s imminent return bolsters an already formidable bullpen for the Los Angeles Dodgers. The team currently boasts an impressive array of relief pitchers, including Evan Phillips, Brusdar Graterol, and left-hander Caleb Ferguson. Furthermore, the Dodgers have received positive updates regarding the recovery of Blake Treinen, who underwent shoulder surgery. With the imminent addition of Kelly, the Dodgers’ bullpen is poised to be a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season.
Joe Kelly’s return to the Los Angeles Dodgers is on the horizon. The hard-throwing reliever brings both excitement and uncertainty to the team. While his ability to rack up strikeouts is unquestionable, his tendency to issue walks adds a degree of unpredictability. Nonetheless, Kelly’s impact extends beyond his on-field performance, making him a popular figure among fans. With the addition of Kelly, the Dodgers are further solidifying an already impressive bullpen. As the upcoming season approaches, all eyes will be on Kelly and his contributions to the team’s quest for another championship.
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