Keone Kela

Jon Heyman of the MLB Network is reporting that free agent RHP Keone Kela has a agreed to a deal with the Padres.

Fantasy Impact

The terms of Kela’s deal with the Padres are unknown at this time. He missed the end of the 2020 season due to forearm tightness. Kela owned a 2.12 ERA, 1.01 WHIP and a 33:11 K:BB ratio across 29 2/3 innings for the Pirates in 2019. The 27-year-old could see some save opportunities and will serve as a late-inning relief option for the Padres in 2021.

Keone Kela (forearm) is playing light catch on flat ground but has shifted is preparing for the offseason.

Fantasy Impact

Kela won't return for the 2020 campaign and will focus on preparing for the offseason. He has been out for over a month due to a forearm injury. Kela will finish 2020 with a 4.50 ERA, 2.00 WHIP and three strikeouts over two innings.

Keone Kela (forearm) continues to work towards his return, though the Pirates aren't sure he'll have time to do so before the end of the season.

Fantasy Impact

Kela continues to recover from a forearm tightness and could miss the rest of the season. "At this point the calendar is starting to work against us a little bit," said Pirates' GM Ben Cherington. "If the calendar lasted another month, then I’d feel differently about it." Richard Rodriguez will continue to handle closing duties for the Pirates if Kela is unable to return.

Keone Kela (forearm) threw off a mound for the first time since being placed on the IL. He is getting closer to a return. The Pirates will continue to update his status as he progresses through his rehab.

Fantasy Impact

Kela has pitched only two innings this season but he will be in the mix for saves upon his return. Owners in 12-team standard redraft leagues who need saves should monitor both Kela and Richard Rodriguez, who is closing in Kela's absence, in order to get an understanding of who would close when Kela is healthy. Kela can be stashed on the IL or left on the Waiver Wire for now.

Keone Kela (forearm) played catch from 120 feet Wednesday and could throw a bullpen session later this week.

Fantasy Impact

Kela was placed on the injured list with right forearm tightness. He is scheduled to throw a bullpen session some time this week. There is currently no timetable for his return.