Rangers' Merrill Kelly Debuts Strong in Mariners Win

The Texas Rangers acquired right-hander Merrill Kelly from the Arizona Diamondbacks in a trade for three pitching prospects, aiming to strengthen their rotation as they push toward the postseason. Kelly, 36, made a strong debut for the Rangers in a 6-4 extra-innings win over the Mariners, pitching 5.2 innings with two runs allowed, six strikeouts, and no walks. Prior to the trade, Kelly was Arizona's top starter with a 3.22 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, and a 121:38 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 128.2 innings. He is set to replace Kumar Rocker in the Texas rotation and is targeting a strong finish to the 2025 season to secure a lucrative free-agent contract. The Rangers currently have the lowest ERA among major league rotations at 3.25 and view Kelly as a key addition to maintain their pitching strength. Kelly's debut came in a critical American League West matchup as the Rangers try to improve after a recent losing streak in Seattle.