Reports: P Joe Kelly on verge of return to Dodgers

Field Level Media|published: Sat 2nd December, 14:27 2023

Sep 22, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Joe Kelly (17) poses with wife Ashley Kelly (Ashley Parks) and children, sons Knox Kelly and Kai Kelly and twins Crue Kelly and Blake Kelly, at Dodger Stadium. credits: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Dodgers are nearing a deal with free-agent reliever Joe Kelly, multiple outlets reported Saturday.

While the value isn't known, Kelly reportedly will receive a one-year contract.

Kelly, 35, is a Southern California native. He began his career with the St. Louis Cardinals (2012-14) and Boston Red Sox (2014-18), then signed as a free agent with the Dodgers in 2019. After three seasons, he signed as a free agent with the Chicago White Sox, then was traded to the Dodgers at the 2023 trade deadline.

Over 12 seasons, Kelly has appeared in 450 games (81 starts) and has a 53-37 record with a 3.95 ERA and seven saves. He has struck out 732 batters in 807 innings.

Kelly struggled with the White Sox in the 2023 season, compiling a 1-5 record and a 4.97 ERA, but found his groove again with the Dodgers after the trade. He was 1-0 with a 1.74 ERA to close out the regular season.

—Field Level Media