PHOENIX – The MLB trade deadline is bringing headlines for the D-Backs, as Arizona has traded right-handed starting pitcher Merrill Kelly to the Texas Rangers, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan.
Jul 26, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Arizona D-Backs starting pitcher Kelly (29) delivers a pitch against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
So far on the 2025 season, Kelly has a 9-6 record with a 3.22 ERA and has been one of the most stable pitchers for the D-Backs this season. The 36-year-old has had a rejuvenation and is one of the biggest names around the trade deadline for starting pitchers, alongside other D-Backs starting pitcher Zac Gallen. Kelly will now be on his way to the Texas Rangers, and Arizona will be receiving LHP Kohl Drake, LHP Mitch Bratt, and RHP David Hagaman. (Credit: Ken Rosenthal | The Athletic)
Arizona D-Backs starting pitcher Kelly (29) throws to the Philadelphia Phillies in the first inning during Game 2 of the NLCS at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia on Oct. 17, 2023. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Merrill Kelly’s MLB journey with the D-Backs:
A former student at Desert Mountain High School and then at Arizona State University, Kelly is somebody who has had a special relationship with the D-Backs, as he is playing for a team he grew up watching. Kelly came to Arizona in 2019 after playing in the KBO league. There have been rumors that since Kelly is going to be a free agent after this season, Kelly could resign with Arizona and retire with the franchise that he calls home.
Arizona D-Backs pitcher Kelly throws to the Milwaukee Brewers in the first inning at Chase Field on July 18, 2019, in Phoenix. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks and Arizona Cardinals for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
