Merrill the runner-up to Skenes for NL Rookie of the Year
Impressive Debut Season
Corbin Burnes may have taken home the NL Rookie of the Year Award, but Merrill Kelly put together a strong campaign in his own right. In his first full season in the majors, he finished with a 13-14 record and a 4.49 ERA, along with 203 strikeouts and just 62 walks. He appeared in 33 games, making 32 starts, and led the NL in innings pitched (200.1). Additionally, his 4.6 fWAR tied him for ninth among all NL pitchers, showcasing his significant contributions to his team.
Key Stats
- 13-14 record
- 4.49 ERA
- 203 strikeouts
- 62 walks
- 33 games (32 starts)
- 200.1 innings pitched
- 4.6 fWAR
Areas of Excellence
Kelly's success can be attributed to several key areas. He possesses a solid four-seam fastball that sits in the mid-90s, and complements it with an effective changeup and a developing cutter. His command of his pitches is also impressive, especially considering his relative inexperience. Kelly's ability to locate his pitches and induce ground balls has been crucial to his success.
Areas for Improvement
While Kelly has great potential, there are some areas where he can improve. His control could be more consistent, as evidenced by his 62 walks in 200.1 innings pitched. Additionally, he sometimes struggles to get deep into games, as his stamina could use some improvement. By addressing these areas, he can elevate his game to the next level.
Future Outlook
Despite finishing second in the Rookie of the Year voting, Merrill Kelly had an impressive debut season and established himself as a valuable asset to the Arizona Diamondbacks. His combination of a strong fastball, effective secondary pitches, and solid command makes him a promising young pitcher with a bright future. As he continues to develop and refine his skills, expect Merrill Kelly to become a consistent contributor and potential ace for the Diamondbacks in the years to come.
