The Los Angeles Dodgers are on the verge of completing a deal to retain right-handed reliever Joe Kelly, an individual familiar with the situation reported, but unauthorized to speak publicly.
Kelly, a beloved figure and member of the Dodgers’ 2020 World Series championship squad, returned to the team following a trade deadline acquisition last season. Despite making only 11 appearances after his return, the Southland native achieved an impressive 1.74 ERA, significantly strengthening the club’s bullpen during their 100-win season.
Prior to the trade, Kelly struggled with a 4.97 ERA while playing for the Chicago White Sox. However, he finished the season with a career-best 99-mph average fastball, earning high praise from Dodgers management for the quality of his pitching.
Upon finalization of his contract, Kelly will rejoin an L.A. bullpen expected to be led by Evan Phillips, Brusdar Graterol, and other returning members from last year’s group, which overcame early season struggles to perform strongly in the latter part of the season.
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This article was originally published in the Los Angeles Times.
