Red Sox’s Zack Kelly Leaves Game in Tears After Suffering Apparent Elbow Injury

The Boston reliever had enjoyed a successful start to the 2023 season.

Red Sox right-hander Zack Kelly left Wednesday night’s game against the Rays in the fifth inning after appearing to suffer an elbow injury.

Kelly, who was relieving starting pitcher Chris Sale, threw a pitch to Rays designated hitter Yandy Diaz in the bottom of the fifth inning at Tropicana Field. The pitch hit Diaz, and Kelly covered his eyes and began crouching down on the mound while holding his right elbow as he appeared in pain.

Other Red Sox players and staff rushed to the mound to comfort Kelly as he broke out in tears. Kelly then was walked to the dugout by two Red Sox staff members. 

It’s unclear at this time how severe Kelly’s injury might be, as the Red Sox have yet to make a statement.

Hoping for the best for Red Sox righty Zack Kelly, who had to leave the game in the fifth inning 🙏 pic.twitter.com/uBbyQkaE56

— Bally Sports Sun: Rays (@BallyRays) April 13, 2023

Kelly has suffered a right elbow injury in the past, though, as he tore the UCL in his right arm and underwent surgery back in 2020.

This is Kelly’s first full season in the majors, as he made Boston’s Opening Day roster for the first time in his career. He was previously called up in September. Before Wednesday’s game, Kelly had posted a 1.35 ERA in his first five appearances of 2023. On Wednesday, the reliever allowed two runs in two-thirds of an inning.