After a disappointing 80-82 finish in 2025, the Arizona Diamondbacks have named 37-year-old Merrill Kelly as their Opening Day starting pitcher for the 2026 season, marking his first such start. The decision is particularly notable as Kelly was traded to the Texas Rangers mid-season in 2025 before returning to the Diamondbacks by signing a two-year, $40 million deal this offseason. Kelly, a product of Arizona State, looks to lead the team into a new season.
