Joe Kelly, known for his fiery personality and electric fastball, made a name for himself in Major League Baseball as a pitcher with a flair for the dramatic. Born on June 9, 1988, in Anaheim, California, Kelly attended the University of California, Riverside, where he honed his skills on the mound. His talent caught the attention of the St. Louis Cardinals, who selected him in the third round of the 2009 MLB Draft.
Kelly made his MLB debut with the Cardinals on June 10, 2012. Initially used as a starter, he quickly demonstrated his ability to handle pressure situations. During his time with the Cardinals, Kelly was part of a formidable pitching staff and contributed to the team's success in reaching the postseason. In 2013, he played a role in the Cardinals' journey to the World Series, where they ultimately fell to the Boston Red Sox.
In July 2014, Kelly was traded to the Boston Red Sox, where he continued to develop his reputation as a hard-throwing pitcher. His time in Boston was marked by a transition from starting pitcher to a bullpen role, where his high-velocity fastball and competitive nature were well-suited. Kelly's tenure with the Red Sox culminated in the 2018 season, a year that saw him become an integral part of the team's bullpen during their World Series run. His performance in the postseason was particularly memorable, as he delivered crucial innings and helped the Red Sox secure the championship against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Following his success with the Red Sox, Kelly signed a three-year contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers in December 2018. His role with the Dodgers further solidified his reputation as a reliable reliever. Kelly's time in Los Angeles was highlighted by his participation in the 2020 season, which was shortened due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the unusual circumstances, the Dodgers excelled, and Kelly contributed to their bullpen depth as the team captured the World Series title, defeating the Tampa Bay Rays.
Throughout his career, Kelly was known not only for his pitching prowess but also for his colorful personality and occasional on-field antics. His willingness to stand up for his teammates and his fearless approach to the game endeared him to fans and teammates alike. Whether it was his infamous "pouty face" directed at the Houston Astros in 2020 or his fiery exchanges with opponents, Kelly's presence on the field was always entertaining.
In addition to his fastball, which regularly reached the upper 90s, Kelly's pitching arsenal included a sharp breaking ball and an effective changeup. His ability to adapt and thrive in various roles, from starter to reliever, showcased his versatility as a pitcher. Over the years, Kelly's career was marked by both triumphs and challenges, but his resilience and competitive spirit remained constant.
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