The Los Angeles Dodgers have been one of the most successful teams in Major League Baseball (MLB) in recent years, and their strong bullpen has been a key factor in their success. One of the key contributors to the Dodgers' relief pitching corps is Joe Kelly, a hard-throwing right-hander who has been making waves in the baseball world with his blazing fastball and sharp slider. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Joe Kelly's career, his pitching style, and what makes him a valuable asset to the Dodgers.
Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Joe Kelly was born on June 9, 1988, in Anaheim, California. He was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the third round of the 2009 MLB draft and made his major league debut in 2012. Kelly quickly established himself as a reliable reliever, posting a 3.74 ERA and 1.37 WHIP in his first season. He spent seven seasons with the Cardinals, helping the team win the World Series in 2011.
Joining the Boston Red Sox and Winning a Championship
In 2014, Kelly was traded to the Boston Red Sox, where he played a key role in the team's bullpen. He helped the Red Sox win the World Series in 2018, pitching in 9 postseason games and allowing just 2 earned runs. Kelly's performance earned him a three-year, $25 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2019.
Pitching Style and Strengths
Joe Kelly is known for his explosive fastball, which can reach speeds of up to 100 mph. He also features a sharp slider and a changeup, which he uses to keep hitters off balance. Kelly's pitching style is aggressive and attacking, as he likes to challenge hitters with his fastball and then use his off-speed pitches to keep them guessing.
Statistics and Accolades
According to ESPN, Joe Kelly has a career ERA of 3.87 and a WHIP of 1.35. He has also struck out 8.5 batters per 9 innings, making him one of the most effective relievers in the game. Kelly has been named to the National League All-Star team once and has finished in the top 10 in the league in holds and games finished.
Joe Kelly is a key member of the Los Angeles Dodgers' bullpen, bringing a unique combination of speed, stuff, and experience to the table. With his blazing fastball and sharp slider, Kelly is a nightmare for hitters to face, and his ability to pitch in high-pressure situations makes him a valuable asset to the Dodgers. As the Dodgers look to make another deep playoff run, Joe Kelly will be a key contributor to their success. Follow Joe Kelly and the Los Angeles Dodgers on ESPN for the latest news, updates, and statistics.
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