Merrill Kelly Evaluated as a Potential Trade Target for Injured Rotations

Arizona Diamondbacks veteran right-hander Merrill Kelly, 36, is a strong candidate for trade as he is in the final year of his contract. Kelly has demonstrated consistent durability and effectiveness, making at least 27 starts in four seasons since his 2019 debut and already completing 20 starts this year. His career ERA has never exceeded 4.44, and his WHIP has remained below 1.30 since his rookie season, with batters hitting a career-best .207 against him and a 1.05 WHIP this season. While he possesses high chase and whiff rates, he has also allowed a high average exit velocity. Teams, particularly those like the Yankees facing significant rotation injuries, may consider him a valuable rental stop-gap, though his age and a previous three-month shoulder injury last season are noted concerns.