Merrill Kelly Chose Diamondbacks Over Padres Due to California Taxes

Diamondbacks pitcher Merrill Kelly revealed he rejected a lucrative three-year offer from the Padres, opting instead for a two-year, $40 million deal with Arizona, primarily due to California's high state income tax. The 37-year-old, who considers Phoenix home, prioritized the lower tax rate. Kelly posted a 12-9 record with a 3.52 ERA and 167 strikeouts last season. His 2026 season start will be delayed due to a back injury.