Dodgers Rumors: Writer Says Joe Kelly’s 2024 Option Will ‘Surely’ Be Declined

Could this be the end for Mariachi Joe?

Veteran relief pitcher Joe Kelly was brought in at the trade deadline to help improve the bullpen this season, and he performed well for the Dodgers. Kelly gave them a nice option out of the pen that was already a trusted member of manager Dave Roberts.

He spent time with the Dodgers years ago, and it was a nice reunion for both sides. He helped the bullpen become one of the best in the league, and he now holds a club option for next year that is worth $9 million.

LA will need to decide what they want to do with him, but they may not want to bring him back at that price. MLB writer Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report believes that there is no chance that the Dodgers bring back the veteran next season.

“Options that surely will be declined: Joe Kelly, RP, Los Angeles Dodgers ($9.5 million club option with a $1 million buyout)”

Per Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report

If the team does decline his option, they may try to re-sign him at a cheaper rate. Kelly loves pitching in LA and LA enjoys having him, so there is a possibility he could return. He is a fan favorite and has performed well out of the bullpen.

LA may be better off trying to retain Kelly at a cheaper price, so they can use the extra money on another arm or free agent. But it remains to be seen what Kelly wants to do, as he has contemplated retirement after another season in the big leagues. 

Fans would love Kelly back, and they know that he will give it his all when in a game. He is still a hard-throwing right-hander at his core, and that is a skill set that is always valuable out of a bullpen.