Over the past year, the Boston Red Sox farm system has been on the rise. One prospect that has stood out is Zack Kelly. The 27-year-old posted a 2.18 ERA between two levels in 2021, and carried that success into this year’s spring training. While Kelly will start the 2022 campaign in Triple-A, he will only be one call from Fenway Park. Due to a shortened spring training, pitching depth will be critical. Kelly should get a chance in the majors at some point this summer.
In three appearances this spring, Kelly did not allow a run. While his sample size was small, he held opponents to a .222 batting average. The Virginia native did not surrender a home run and was one of the team’s best relievers. His focus will now shift to improving his secondary pitches at Triple-A.
While Kelly spent time between two levels in last year, he thrived against advanced competition. In 15 games for Worcester, he posted a 2.89 ERA. He was nearly unhittable, as the right-hander held opponents to a .191 batting average. His control also improved, as Kelly only walked five batters. In a system full of talent, the Newberry College product showed why he has the potential to be a solid reliever in the majors.
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Although Kelly’s MLB debut is on hold, he should not have to wait long. His arsenal includes a fastball and changeup that can each be above average at times. If he can improve his cutter, Kelly will have a third pitch that can fool hitters. He is not currently projected to be a late-inning arm, but could be a solid sixth-inning reliever. During his time in the minors, he has 12 holds, including 10 in 2021.
With Opening Day only a week away, the wait for baseball fans is almost over. For Kelly, his opportunity to prove himself will start even sooner with Worcester’s season opener on Tuesday. Regardless of when his chance comes, it has been an unforgettable ride for Kelly, who was cut by the Los Angeles Angels in 2020 before joining the Red Sox organization. Since the Boston took a chance on him, he has continually surpassed expectations.
If he can continue to improve his game, Kelly will become an even more familiar name to Red Sox fans. His story is far from over, and the next chapter could be unforgettable. In spring training, he showed that 2022 was no fluke which is a promising sign for Boston.
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Main Image Credit: via Masslive.com
