Dodgers Rumors: LA Showing Interest in Joe Kelly as Trade Deadline Nears
The Dodgers seem to be in a reunion mood right now. First, they brought back utilityman Kiké Hernandez the other day, and now they are interested in acquiring another old friend.
LA reportedly has an interest in bringing back right-hander reliever Joe Kelly this trade deadline as the team searches for help in the bullpen. Robert Murray of Fansided reports.
Kelly was with the team for three seasons between 2019-2021, helping them win a title in the process. He saw the most successful run of his career with the Dodgers and could find his way back with the team.
He was just activated off the injured list and now is being looked at by multiple teams. For the year, Kelly owns an ERA of 4.97 and a WHIP of 1.31.
His numbers may be a little elevated, but the veteran reliever is having a strong year punching guys out. He has struck out nearly a third of the batters that he has faced this season, giving him 41 strikeouts over 29 innings of work. Dodgers should absolutely get Joe Kelly if they can.
3.03 xERA
2.83 xFIP
32.3 K%
Averaging 99 mph on his FB
Has a $9.5M club option for ‘24 https://t.co/T9a82xaGKk — Doug McKain (@DMAC_LA) July 27, 2023
Control has been an issue for Kelly at times throughout his career, but he understands how to pitch in the postseason and has familiarity with the Dodgers system.
Kelly also has a club option for next season at $9.5 million, allowing the Dodgers to decide if they would want to keep him or not.
Fans likely remember Kelly from his interaction with the Houston Astros, when he made the face seen around the world.
Kelly wouldn’t be the worst option for LA to go get to upgrade their bullpen. He could provide them with a solid pitcher to be a set-up man or even a closer in certain spots.
The search for pitching help continues, and it’ll be something to watch closely over the next few days before the deadline ends.
Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
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Source: Dodgers Nation
