© Denis Poroy-Imagn Images
PHOENIX – The Diamondbacks are in talks with a familiar face to bring back some starting pitching help for the upcoming 2026 MLB season, as Merrill Kelly has been wanting to return to Arizona if the deal is right.
Thank you for reading this post, don’t forget to subscribe!
Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Merrill Kelly (29) throws a pitch against the Texas Rangers during the first inning in game two of the 2023 World Series at Globe Life Field on Oct. 28, 2023, Arlington, Texas. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro reported that there is mutual interest between the D-backs and former Arizona starting pitcher Merrill Kelly to make a reunion happen. Kelly, who finished with a 12-9 record and a 3.52 ERA in 2025, is one of the biggest names in free agency and has spoken out about how much he wants to continue his career in Arizona.
Sep 21, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Texas Rangers starting pitcher Merrill Kelly (23) throws the ball during the first inning against the Miami Marlins at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
When Merrill Kelly packed for Texas earlier this season, the split felt transactional as Arizona needed flexibility, and the Rangers needed innings they could trust. What no one expected was how quickly Kelly would hint that his heart hadn’t followed his luggage. Now, with Kelly openly expressing interest in reuniting with the Diamondbacks, the conversation goes far deeper than nostalgia. It’s about identity, timing, and whether a team on the fringe of contention chooses a veteran leader who wants to be in Arizona or a younger arm with more upside.
Jul 26, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Merrill Kelly (29) delivers a pitch against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
The chances of Merrill Kelly returning to Arizona:
Kelly has never been the loudest ace, but he has been the most reliable at times for the D-backs in the past. In Arizona, his consistency carried emotional weight as young pitchers gravitated toward him and coaches leaned on him. Arizona fans saw him as more than a top arm in their rotation, as his ties to Arizona and his time at Arizona State University bring more of a hometown fandom. Reunions feel right when they serve a purpose. Bringing Kelly back signals Arizona isn’t drifting out of playoff contention. It’s choosing to compete with intention, not hope, and sounds like a definite possibility on the table.
Former D-backs SP Zac Gallen linked to NL West division rival
Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
