Role
Kelly opened 2026 in the Boston bullpen and pitched 17 times through May 19 with a 3.31 ERA in 16 1/3 innings and three holds. He was optioned to Worcester on May 22, went on the Triple-A injured list in early July, and on July 21 was recalled and placed on the 60-day IL with right elbow inflammation. He didn't pitch again. In 2027 he's depth again, if he keeps his 40-man spot.
Outlook
The ERA flattered him. He struck out 14 and walked 7, and his expected ERA was 5.99 (Baseball Savant). The fastball still sits around 96 mph. He's 31, and his ERAs in five seasons with Boston range from 3.31 to 4.58. The elbow is the bigger issue, since it ended his season in July.
Our take: Kelly is a reasonable 40-man arm to stash, and the first one the club will move if it needs a roster spot this winter. If he's still around, expect a few call-ups and not much more.