Fan-favorite Joe Kelly has returned to the Los Angeles Dodgers after being acquired from the Chicago White Sox in a trade that also involved Lance Lynn. This reunion has brought excitement to Dodgers fans who remember Kelly’s previous successful stint with the team.

Heading into the 2023 season, Kelly was in the final year of his contract with the White Sox. Unfortunately, he was plagued by injuries to his groin and elbow, which affected his performance. In 31 appearances, he recorded a 4.97 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, and a.313 opponents’ on-base percentage in 29 innings pitched.

However, once back with the Dodgers, Kelly’s stuff took a significant leap. He showcased his skills with a remarkable 1.74 ERA, 0.87 WHIP, and an impressive strikeout rate of 16.55 per nine innings pitched in 10.1 innings. Overall, in his combined 42 appearances between the White Sox and Dodgers, he posted a 4.12 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, and a 2.72 FIP. His high strikeout rate made him a valuable asset in the Dodgers bullpen, often trusted in high-leverage situations.

Kelly’s pitching abilities ranked among the best in baseball, with his fastball velocity placing in the 98th percentile. His 35.7% strikeout rate further highlighted his dominance on the mound.

Although the Dodgers declined Kelly’s $9.5 million team option for the 2024 season, opting for a $1 million buyout, they quickly re-signed him to a one-year, $8 million contract. This move demonstrates the team’s faith in Kelly’s abilities and his importance to their pitching staff.

One of Kelly’s standout performances in the second half of the season came against the San Diego Padres on August 7. In that game, he struck out the side, including getting the talented Fernando Tatis Jr. to chase on a knuckle curve, ending the inning on a high note.

Looking ahead to 2024, the Dodgers have made a significant investment in Kelly, successfully tapping into the qualities that made him effective during his first tenure with the team. He is expected to continue being a reliable high-leverage option for Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, albeit with a new jersey number.

In a lighthearted twist, following the signing of Shohei Ohtani, Kelly willingly gave up his No. 17 jersey to the two-way superstar. As a gesture of appreciation, Ohtani gifted Kelly’s wife, Ashley, a new Porsche, which was delivered to their home. This anecdote adds a touch of fun and camaraderie to Kelly’s return to the Dodgers.