[ad_1]
One of many foremost items that the Dodgers acquired over the commerce deadline this season was veteran reduction pitcher Joe Kelly from the Chicago White Sox. Kelly came to visit to the workforce in a deal that additionally netted them starter Lance Lynn.
It was a reunion for Kelly and the Dodgers since he was with the workforce a number of years in the past. LA believed that he may assist them out of the bullpen, and he was stable for them all through the second half of the season.
He has a membership choice for $9.5 million subsequent season, and it stays to be seen if the Dodgers decide it up. Kelly was a beneficial member of the bullpen, however they can spend that cash round a little bit extra successfully.
Nonetheless, it could not even matter as Kelly has been toying with the concept of retirement now that the season is over.
“I joke round with the workforce and the blokes on a regular basis the place it’s like, effectively if we win the World Collection, I’m undoubtedly, like 100%, retiring,” Kelly advised WEEI’s Rob Bradford on Audacy’s “Baseball Isn’t Boring” podcast. “I type of needed to exit alone and be the one man within the historical past of the sport to retire that would nonetheless throw 101 (miles per hour). I believed that will’ve been type of fascinating.”
It will be onerous to see Kelly retiring from the game after one other good season, however he’s getting up there in age. He’s 35 years previous and he might not wish to undergo the grind of one other season.
Over 39.1 innings of labor this season, Kelly posted an ERA of 4.12, whereas placing out 60 batters. He nonetheless has the speed in his pitches, giving him his signature potential intact.
If Kelly doesn’t retire, a return to LA makes probably the most sense, However the workforce will seemingly have to signal him again on a extra team-friendly contract. It will hold him on the town, however enable LA to make use of cash on another choices as effectively.
It stays to be seen if Kelly will return subsequent season, however LA would like to have him. He’s a trusted member of the bullpen, a fan favourite and offers them a pleasant veteran presence as effectively.
Photograph Credit score: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports activities
Have you ever subscribed to our YouTube Channel but? Subscribe and hit that notification bell to remain updated on all the newest Dodgers information, rumors, interviews, reside streams, and extra!
[ad_2]