Los Angeles Dodgers Nearing Re-Signing Deal with Joe Kelly

12:29PM: The Dodgers and Kelly have come to terms, as reported by WEEI.com’s Rob Bradford (X link). The deal will be finalized once Kelly passes a physical. It is anticipated that Kelly has signed a one-year contract, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post (X link).

11:31AM: Sources have revealed that the Dodgers and right-hander Joe Kelly are “very close” to reaching a new contract, as indicated by FanSided’s Robert Murray (X link). Just last month, the Dodgers declined a $9.5MM club option on Kelly and instead bought out his contract for $1MM, allowing Kelly to enter free agency.

This will mark Kelly’s third separate stint with the Dodgers. He initially joined the team on a three-year, $25MM free agent contract in the 2018-19 offseason. After the Dodgers declined a $12MM club option for a fourth year, Kelly signed with the White Sox on a two-year, $17MM deal. Kelly’s resurgence with the Dodgers after moving from the White Sox provided a much-needed boost to the team’s bullpen.

Kelly’s impressive performance with the Dodgers, despite some health concerns over the years, has solidified his position as a valuable asset to the team’s pitching staff. The Dodgers continue to strengthen their bullpen, recognizing the critical role it plays in supporting the team’s starting rotation. Kelly’s return to Dodger Blue will further bolster the team’s bullpen, providing depth and quality to support the starters. With Kelly joining key setup options like Brusdar Graterol and Caleb Ferguson, the Dodgers are poised for another strong season.