Merrill Kelly Tabbed as Diamondbacks' Opening Day Starter

Veteran pitcher 'excited' to lead team on season's first game after rejoining club as free agent

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Arizona Diamondbacks have named veteran right-hander Merrill Kelly as their Opening Day starting pitcher for the 2026 season. Kelly, who re-signed with the team as a free agent this offseason, expressed his excitement at being chosen to take the mound for the club's first game of the year.

Why it matters

Kelly's selection as the Diamondbacks' Opening Day starter is a testament to his consistency and leadership within the team's pitching rotation. As an experienced veteran, his presence on the mound will be crucial in setting the tone for the club's season ahead.

The details

Kelly, 33, has been a steady presence in the Diamondbacks' starting rotation since joining the club in 2019 after a successful stint in the KBO League in South Korea. The right-hander has posted a 42-34 record with a 3.87 ERA over his four seasons in Arizona, emerging as one of the team's most reliable arms.

  • The Diamondbacks announced Kelly as their Opening Day starter on February 15, 2026.

The players

Merrill Kelly

A 33-year-old right-handed pitcher who has been a mainstay in the Arizona Diamondbacks' starting rotation since 2019 after returning from a successful stint in the KBO League in South Korea.

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What they’re saying

“Being named the Opening Day starter means a lot to me. I'm excited to take the mound and help set the tone for our team this season.”

— Merrill Kelly (azcentral.com)

What’s next

Kelly is expected to lead the Diamondbacks' starting rotation throughout the 2026 season as the team looks to build on its recent success and compete for a playoff berth.

The takeaway

Merrill Kelly's selection as the Diamondbacks' Opening Day starter underscores his value as a reliable and experienced pitcher within the organization. His leadership and consistent performance will be crucial as the team aims to get off to a strong start in the 2026 season.