Kenneth Merrill Kelly Bio
Kenneth Merrill Kelly is an American professional baseball pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks of Major League Baseball (MLB). He has previously played in MLB for the Texas Rangers and in the KBO League for the SK Wyverns. Kelly’s career has seen remarkable achievements, including winning the Korean Series in 2018 and being recognized as a KBO Strikeout leader in 2017. Throughout his professional career, Kelly has established himself as a resilient pitcher, overcoming challenges and earning significant accolades, such as pitching in the World Series.
Early Life and Background
Kenneth Merrill Kelly was born on October 14, 1988, in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Philadelphia. He spent part of his childhood in Lake Forest, Illinois, before moving to Scottsdale, Arizona. Kelly attended Desert Mountain High School, where he began to develop his skills as a baseball player. His talent was evident early on, leading to opportunities in college baseball.
After high school, Kelly attended Yavapai College for two years before transferring to Arizona State University, where he played for the Arizona State Sun Devils in 2010. His collegiate experience helped him refine his skills and prepared him for a professional career in baseball.
Path to Baseball
Kenneth Merrill Kelly was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the 37th round of the 2007 MLB draft but chose not to sign. He was later selected by the Cleveland Indians in the 22nd round of the 2009 draft, again opting not to sign. His persistence paid off when he was drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays in the eighth round of the 2010 MLB draft. Kelly began his professional career in the minor leagues, steadily advancing through the ranks.
Kelly’s minor league journey included stints with the Hudson Valley Renegades, Bowling Green Hot Rods, Charlotte Stone Crabs, and Montgomery Biscuits. He showcased his potential by achieving impressive statistics, including a 13-8 record with 111 strikeouts in 2013. His consistent performance earned him a non-roster invitation to the 2014 spring training, although he did not make the Opening Day roster.
Kenneth Merrill Kelly Career
Early Career (2010-2018)
Kelly signed with the SK Wyverns of the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) ahead of the 2015 season. During his four seasons with the Wyverns, he compiled a 48-32 record and a 3.86 ERA. His standout performance in 2018 led to a Korean Series championship, where he pitched seven innings in Game 3, allowing only two runs.
After his successful tenure in Korea, Kelly returned to Major League Baseball when he signed a two-year contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks on December 4, 2018. He made his MLB debut on April 1, 2019, against the San Diego Padres, earning a win and showcasing his potential as a starting pitcher.
Breakthrough (2019-2023)
Kelly’s first season with the Diamondbacks was a mix of challenges and triumphs. Despite leading the National League in losses with 14, he also led the team in wins with 13 and innings pitched. His determination to improve was evident when he made mechanical adjustments after receiving feedback from the team’s manager.
In 2022, Kelly signed a two-year contract extension worth $18 million with the Diamondbacks. He began the season with a remarkable 15-inning scoreless streak, earning the National League Pitcher of the Month Award in July after posting a 1.31 ERA in six starts. His performance continued to shine in the 2023 postseason, where he became the first player to win a game in both the World Series and Korean Series.
Notable Works and Milestones
Kelly’s career has been marked by significant achievements, including his contributions to the Diamondbacks during the 2023 World Series. He pitched a historic game in Game 2, striking out nine batters without allowing a walk, and finished the postseason with a 3-1 record and a 2.25 ERA.
Kenneth Merrill Kelly Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Kenneth Merrill Kelly has received recognition for his performances, particularly during his time in the KBO League and MLB.
Kenneth Merrill Kelly Awards Won
Kelly’s notable achievements include being a Korean Series champion in 2018 and a KBO Strikeout leader in 2017. These accolades highlight his skill and dedication to the sport.
Kenneth Merrill Kelly Family
Kenneth Merrill Kelly is married to Bre Kelly, and the couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Hadley, in February 2022. The family resides in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Personal Life
Kelly is known for his dedication to his family and his commitment to baseball. He has also been noted for his striking physical resemblance to actor-comedian Chris Elliott.