Joe Kelly's Return: Update on Dodgers' Relief Pitcher

Joe Kelly's Road to Recovery

Joe Kelly, a key relief pitcher for the Dodgers, is on track to return after scheduling back-to-back rehab starts on Friday and Saturday with Triple-A Oklahoma City. This promising move indicates that the 36-year-old right-hander could rejoin the Dodgers' active roster for the upcoming series against the Miami Marlins. Recovery has been crucial for Kelly, who has not pitched since August 30 due to shoulder inflammation.

Injury History and Current Status

Having previously dealt with a right shoulder posterior strain earlier this season, Kelly's current condition raises questions about possible connections with past injuries. The depth of the Dodgers' bullpen has been tested this season, with several pitchers on the injured list, including Anthony Banda and Connor Brogdon. Banda, now recovering from a fractured hand, and Brogdon, sidelined with plantar fasciitis, highlight the struggles faced by the team's pitching.

Performance Overview

• Kelly's season performance: With a 5.20 ERA, this marked a challenging season for him.
• In April, his ERA improved greatly in the second half, showcasing a 1.74 ERA after a mid-season rocky patch.
• Previously, his remarkable contribution towards the Dodgers’ 2020 World Series victory remains a key highlight of his career.

As fans anticipate Kelly's return, the question remains: Can he bounce back to his former glory and aid the Dodgers in their playoff aspirations?