Zack Kelly enters spring training in unfamiliar territory following an encouraging 2022 campaign

Photo Credit: Red Sox's Zack Kelly says his best pitch is his changeup. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr) AP

For Red Sox right-hander Zack Kelly, the 2022 campaign was full of milestones. The Roanoke native made his MLB debut after five seasons in the minors. While his sample size was small, Kelly was a reliable arm during the final weeks of the 2022 season. He will be looking to build on his success in spring training.

In his first major league stint, Kelly posted a 3.95 ERA and recorded one hold in 13 appearances. He showed excellent control as the 27-year-old only walked four batters. While opponents posted a .259 batting average against him, Kelly was able to limit the damage when runners did reach base and recorded 11 strikeouts.

Tyler Milliken ⚾️ @tylermilliken_

Zack Kelly was a breath of fresh air last night. 2 Ks and a scoreless big league debut. More fresh blood in the bullpen the better. No need to keep around arms that aren’t helping beyond 2022.

Additionally, the Newberry College product only allowed a run or more in four of his 13 appearances. In September, he was one of the Red Sox’s best relievers, as he recorded a 2.52 ERA. In that span, Kelly did not allow a home run, and opponents posted a .200 average against him. He was also able to limit hard contact.

During the 2022 campaign, the former undrafted free agent was a bright spot in a bullpen that struggled throughout the year. Kelly showed that his performance in the minors was no fluke and excelled regardless of the situation. While he still has to fight for a spot in spring training, Kelly proved he could succeed in the majors.

Ian Cundall @IanCundall

With the Red Sox making changes in the bullpen, I would be shocked if RHP Zack Kelly isn't one of the players coming up. Last 10 g.: 12.2IP, 4H, 0R, 6BB, 19K. Opponents: .100/.217/.100. Plus FB & CH. Inconsistent command & control, but has improved there as the season has gone on

So far this offseason, the Red Sox have been busy adding to the bullpen. The new faces include Chris Martin, Kenley Jansen, and Joely Rodriguez. Martin and Jansen are expected to get plenty of work in high-leverage situations, but beyond that, nothing is certain. Plenty of arms, including Kelly, will be looking to prove themselves.

In less than a month, Red Sox pitchers and catchers are scheduled to report to spring training. That will be Kelly’s first chance to fight for a spot on the roster. If he can continue to build on his success, then the 2023 season could be full of milestones for Kelly.

Follow Jamie on Twitter @JamieGatlin17

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