SCOTTSALDE — Arizona Diamondbacks mainstay Merrill Kelly is switching his glove for a golf club as he enters the 2026 Annexus Pro-Am at the WM Phoenix Open, tournament organizers announced Thursday.

May 30, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Merrill Kelly against the Washington Nationals at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

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Kelly, a longtime Arizona resident and Arizona State alumnus, will join a long list of celebrities and professional athletes — including Michael Phelps, Travis Kelce and Larry Fitzgerald — in a tournament that pairs sports figures and business leaders with professional golfers in a multi-day Pro-Am format.

With deep roots in the desert, the Diamondbacks starter brings added interest from fans who may not regularly follow golf but are eager to see one of the team’s most popular pitchers compete in a different arena. Kelly is one of many participants expected to draw attention from across the sports landscape, as the tournament continues to blend golf with business, culture and other professional sports.

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

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The Annexus Pro-Am, held annually ahead of the WM Phoenix Open, has increasingly positioned itself as more than a celebrity exhibition. Kelly’s commitment strengthens that identity, signaling continued momentum in attracting athletes who approach the event with genuine competitive intent.

This will be Kelly’s second time participating in the Pro-Am, which takes place shortly before MLB begins its spring training schedule. Having a widely recognized Arizona pitcher in the field adds a layer of friendly competition ahead of another grueling major league season.

Jun 15, 2025; Phoenix, Ariz., U.S.; Arizona Diamondbacks right-hander Merrill Kelly (29) pitches against the San Diego Padres at Chase Field. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

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The WM Phoenix Open will run from Feb. 2-8, with the Annexus Pro-Am scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 4.

*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde