Merrill Kelly

D-backs manager Torey Lovullo said he hopes Kelly can ramp up his throwing "sooner than later" and have enough time to take the ball in the second series of the season while avoiding the injured list.

Fantasy Impact

Kelly has already been ruled out as the team's Opening Day starter, but it appears there is a scenario in which he can avoid the IL. The right-hander split the 2025 season between the D-backs and Rangers, posting a 3.52 ERA across 32 starts.

Merrill Kelly said Wednesday that he does not think he will be ready for opening day.

Fantasy Impact

Kelly is dealing with back discomfort and continues to undergo evaluation to determine the cause. He had been slated to start opening day on March 26 against the Los Angeles Dodgers for the Arizona Diamondbacks, but now appears likely to begin the season on the injured list. Zac Gallen and Ryne Nelson are the leading candidates to take his spot on the mound if Kelly is unable to pitch.

Kelly (back) is dealing with mid-back tightness. Manager Torey Lovullo said Tuesday that Kelly has received further evaluation of the injury, which has included a CT scan and an MRI.

Fantasy Impact

Lovullo indicated Monday that Kelly was feeling good. Arizona expects to have more information on Kelly's status by Wednesday.

Merrill Kelly is scheduled to undergo precautionary imaging after experiencing mid-back tightness.

Fantasy Impact

Kelly was scratched from facing hitters in a scheduled live batting practice session. There does not appear to be too much concern among the Diamondbacks organization.

Merrill Kelly has been named the opening day starter for the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Fantasy Impact

Kelly will receive his first opening day nod after posting a 3.52 ERA and 1.11 WHIP with 167 strikeouts across 184 innings between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Texas Rangers last season. Arizona opens the season on March 26 against the Los Angeles Dodgers.