PHOENIX — Merrill Kelly had leverage this offseason and it came as little surprise that other teams pursued the veteran right-hander.
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May 2, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Merrill Kelly (29) pitches against the Philadelphia Phillies during the first inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
According to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal, Kelly was offered a three-year contract worth more than $50 million by a West Coast team before ultimately deciding to re-sign with the Arizona Diamondbacks. The report underscored Kelly’s standing across the league as one of the most closely monitored pitchers on the market.
Kelly’s interest was well earned. Since joining the Diamondbacks in 2019, he has emerged as a steady presence in the rotation, delivering consistent outings, postseason poise and leadership in a clubhouse filled with young talent.
Merrill Kelly pitches in a 3-inning simulated game at Salt River Fields on July 31, 2024, in Scottsdale. Kelly has been on the injured list with a right shoulder injury since April.
Even after being traded to the Texas Rangers at the deadline, Kelly remained serviceable, posting a 3-3 record with a 4.23 ERA, but ended the entire year with a 3.54 ERA. As one of the better starters in the rotation in 2025, Arizona made an effort to bring back one of its longtime mainstays.
Who the West Coast team that pursued Kelly remains unknown, though several clubs in the National League West need rotation help. Adding a familiar opponent could have offered both competitive value and strategy against the Snakes.
Apr 20, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Merrill Kelly (29) looks on as he delivers a pitch against the Chicago Cubs during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
Ultimately, familiarity may have played a significant role in Kelly’s decision. A former Arizona State student who lives in the Valley, Kelly has long been a fan favorite and maintains deep ties to the area. Remaining in Arizona allows him to continue his career in a place he considers home.
By retaining Kelly, the Diamondbacks gained stability in their rotation and reaffirmed the value of homegrown talent, even as the veteran turned down a better offer elsewhere.
Merrill Kelly goes back to the Diamondbacks on a 2 year/$40 million dollar deal.
One thing to note was how effective his Cutter was in 2025. He increased his Run Value on the offering from 1 to 10 (+9 RV), held opponents to a .181 BA, and increased his K% by almost 10 K%. pic.twitter.com/03OnCA1SGE
— Running From The OPS (@OPS_BASEBALL) December 14, 2025
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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