Injuries, big contracts made Kelly’s future in Los Angeles questionable
Joe Kelly’s brief time as a Dodger may be over. Despite a 2.67 ERA over the past two seasons and an average fastball of about 98 MPH, the Dodgers are expected to pay the $4 million buyout on his contract rather than re-sign him.
Kelly sustained a biceps injury in his last appearance on the mound and is expected to miss the beginning of the 2022 season. That, combined with several big free agent contracts up for consideration, is likely enough incentive for L.A. to concentrate the big bucks on other players.
Jorge Castillo at the Los Angeles Times notes that the buyout could pave the way for a cheaper deal with Kelly that the Dodgers may be more willing to pay, but with so many uncertainties and other key contracts to consider, Kelly may be on his way to his third team in five seasons.
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