Top Landing Spots for Free Agent Merrill Kelly
For the first time in his MLB career, Merrill Kelly will enter the free-agent market this offseason. The reliable, middle-rotation starter is expected to attract interest from multiple teams. At 37 years old, Kelly is clearly in the later stages of his career, yet he remains durable and effective.
Kelly had one of his strongest seasons recently. While with Arizona, he started 22 games, pitching 128.2 innings with a 3.22 ERA and a 1.057 WHIP. After being traded to the Texas Rangers at the deadline, his performance dipped somewhat. In 10 starts for Texas, he threw 55.1 innings, posting a 4.23 ERA and a 1.247 WHIP.
Now entering free agency, Kelly should find interest from several MLB organizations looking to deepen their pitching staff. Teams often need more pitching depth than initially planned, making a seasoned pitcher like Kelly valuable.
Aside from the 2024 season, when he only made 13 starts and pitched 73.2 innings due to right shoulder inflammation, Kelly has demonstrated strong durability. His 2025 season was impressive—throwing 184 innings with a 3.52 ERA.
“Age will play as big a role in what type of contract Kelly gets as anything,”
This durability and solid recent performance will support negotiations for Kelly's 2026 contract and possibly beyond.
Author's summary: Merrill Kelly’s proven durability and consistent performance at age 37 make him a valuable free-agent pitcher for MLB teams seeking experienced depth in their rotation.