The Houston Astros are actively targeting Merrill Kelly to enhance their starting rotation as they prepare for the postseason. With the team seeking to bolster their lineup, the pressing need for a dependable third starter has become a priority to support their playoff ambitions.
Rotation Needs Beyond the Top Starters
While Hunter Brown and Framber Valdez provide solid foundations in the Astros’ pitching rotation, the team faces a critical gap in the third starter spot. In playoff scenarios that involve multiple games, having a reliable third arm is key to maintaining competitiveness across the series. Astros general manager Dana Brown is reportedly planning strategic moves to address this crucial need.
Chandler Rome pointed out the urgency, stating,
“Now, the Astros again need a third starter behind Framber Valdez and Hunter Brown,”
—Chandler Rome, Team Observer.
Merrill Kelly’s Credentials and Fit for Houston
Merrill Kelly, a 36-year-old right-handed pitcher and native of Houston, represents an ideal candidate to fill this rotation void. Presently in the final year of his contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks, Kelly has maintained a strong 3.34 ERA over 20 starts this season, carrying an 8-5 win-loss record and a 2.9 WAR.
His statistics underline his effectiveness: 113 strikeouts over 116 innings, while issuing only 33 walks and allowing 13 home runs, resulting in a WHIP of 1.052. Kelly’s consistency and veteran experience could provide much-needed depth to the Astros’ pitching staff as they chase championship success.
Potential Obstacles in Securing Kelly
Despite Kelly’s appeal, the Astros may encounter challenges in finalizing a trade. Securing him might require significant prospect capital, which could strain Houston’s resources. Moreover, owner Jim Crane would need to carefully evaluate the financial implications, especially regarding luxury tax thresholds, before committing to such a move. If the organization is willing to take that leap, Kelly’s addition could become a game-changing reinforcement.
Uncertainty Within the Current Rotation
Beyond the dependable arms of Brown and Valdez, the Astros’ rotation includes several young pitchers and those recovering from injuries, such as Lance McCullers Jr. The stability of other options like Cristian Javier, J.P. France, Luis Garcia, and Spencer Arrighetti remains uncertain. This mix highlights the strategic importance of adding a reliable veteran starter before the postseason push.
As the trade deadline nears, the Astros face a critical decision point in balancing their roster needs to ensure they enter October with a competitive rotation.
Impact on Astros’ Postseason Prospects
Focusing on acquiring Merrill Kelly shows Houston’s determination to solidify its pitching depth and improve its chances in the playoffs. A strengthened rotation will not only ease pressure on their top starters but also increase flexibility in managing games throughout the postseason. This targeted approach aligns with the team’s broader goal of contending deep into October while building on their core strengths.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened to Merrill Kelly?
A. During the 2023-24 Diamondbacks season, Kelly left three games because of muscle cramps. At the start of this season, the issue came back. In early September, he left two games due to cramping again, first versus the Texas Rangers on September 11, 2024, and then against the Milwaukee Brewers on September 21.
Q. How many years did Merrill Kelly play in Korea?
A. Before the 2015 season, Kelly joined the SK Wyverns in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO). Over four seasons with the team, he achieved a 48–32 record and a 3.86 ERA. During this time, Kelly helped win the 2018 Korean Series.
Q. Is Merrill Kelly a good pitcher?
A. The Arizona chapter of the BBWAA named him the D-backs’ Most Valuable Pitcher after he had 7 wins, 11 losses, and a 4.44 ERA, with 130 strikeouts in 158 innings in his third season. On May 20 against the Dodgers, he struck out 12 batters—a personal record. He became one of six D-backs pitchers to achieve 12 or more strikeouts without any walks.