Kevin Kelly returns to form for the Tampa Bay Rays

Tampa Bay Rays reliever Kevin Kelly has successfully rebounded during the 2026 season following a 2025 campaign interrupted by injuries. Kelly remains a primary ground-ball specialist, though he has integrated a new changeup into his pitching arsenal to expand the strike zone. This off-speed pitch now accounts for 36% of his offerings against left-handed hitters and 20% against right-handed batters. Despite concerns regarding the lack of velocity separation between his fastball and the new pitch, Kelly continues to rely on his signature sidearm delivery and exceptional extension. His ability to hit the bottom of the zone and his unusual release angle remain the core elements of his performance. Kelly continues to occupy a critical role in the Tampa Bay Rays bullpen as he avoids forcing his new pitch into traditional tunneling patterns.

• 1:15 PMYahoo Sports — Kevin Kelly’s 2026 breakout isn’t a reinvention