Merrill Kelly (Back) Optimistic to Avoid IL, Targets Early Season Pitching

Merrill Kelly (back) expressed optimism Sunday about avoiding the injured list and being available for the Arizona Diamondbacks' rotation early in the regular season. While he won't start the March 26 opener, he aims to pitch in the second series against Detroit. Kelly was sidelined a week ago with mid-back tightness but has responded well to a cortisone shot. He played catch Sunday without issue and plans to increase throwing intensity this week, per Steve Gilbert of MLB.com.