Thu Jul 03 03:20:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**MLB Executives Believe Diamondbacks Should Trade Veteran Pitcher Merrill Kelly**

*By Zach Pressnell, Newsweek*

Columbus, Ohio – According to a recent poll of MLB executives conducted by Jim Bowden of The Athletic, the Arizona Diamondbacks are expected to trade veteran pitcher Merrill Kelly before the upcoming trade deadline.

Kelly, 36, is enjoying a strong season, posting a 7-4 record with a 3.49 ERA and a 1.07 WHIP over 17 starts. With 100 strikeouts in 98 innings and a reasonable $7 million salary for 2025, the right-hander presents a valuable asset for teams seeking pitching depth.

Despite Kelly’s preference to remain in Arizona, where he grew up, executives believe the Diamondbacks could benefit from trading him as a rental player. “The D-Backs can trade him at the deadline as a rental and then re-sign him in the offseason,” Bowden quoted one GM as saying. This strategy would allow Arizona to acquire valuable prospects while retaining the option to bring Kelly back next winter.

Potential landing spots for Kelly include the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, and Detroit Tigers. The Dodgers have a history of acquiring rental pitchers, while the Yankees are reportedly seeking additional starting pitching to solidify their position in the American League East. The Cubs, aiming for a playoff push, could be aggressive in replacing the injured Justin Steele. The Detroit Tigers, a surprise contender this season, could significantly improve by adding a veteran arm like Kelly.

The Diamondbacks must capitalize on Kelly’s value now, even if it means potentially trading him within the division.

*Zach Pressnell is a Newsweek contributor based in Columbus, Ohio. His focus is MLB content. You can reach him at z.pressnell@newsweek.com.*

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