Boston, MA, September 13, 2025
News Summary
Zack Kelly, a former standout from Newberry College, successfully returned to the MLB with the Boston Red Sox, pitching four flawless innings without allowing a run. Originally called up from Triple-A Worcester, Kelly marked his return with an impressive performance, striking out four batters and allowing only two hits. A resilient player, Kelly aims to reinforce the Red Sox’s pitching roster as they pursue postseason goals, following a challenging period on the injured list due to an oblique injury.
Boston, MA – Zack Kelly, a former standout player from Newberry College, made a successful return to Major League Baseball (MLB) with the Boston Red Sox on Wednesday, after being called up from Triple-A Worcester earlier in the week. In his first game back, Kelly showcased his skills by pitching four flawless innings without allowing a single run.
During his impressive outing, Kelly allowed only two hits and struck out four batters while maintaining control by not walking anyone. This performance marked a triumphant return for Kelly, who last appeared in the majors on June 29. He was called up to the Red Sox on Monday, with hopes that he could bolster the team’s pitching roster.
Prior to his promotion, Kelly had made 18 appearances for the Red Sox in the current season, accumulating impressive statistics including 29 strikeouts over 26.2 innings pitched. His time with the Worcester Red Sox, the Boston AAA affiliate, saw him playing a pivotal role, recording three saves and four holds, indicating his effectiveness as a reliever.
In the previous season, Kelly had a commendable record, finishing with a 6-3 mark. He achieved 61 strikeouts and maintained a 3.97 earned run average (ERA) along with a 1.25 WHIP in 49 appearances. Opponents fared poorly against him, managing to hit just .208, highlighting his competitiveness on the mound.
Kelly commenced his professional baseball career after signing as a free agent with the Oakland Athletics on June 16, 2017. He later joined the Los Angeles Angels before signing with the Red Sox on January 4, 2021. He was invited as a non-roster player to spring training in 2022 and subsequently made his MLB debut against the Minnesota Twins on August 29, 2022. In his rookie season, he recorded 13 appearances and pitched a total of 13.2 innings, achieving one hold and striking out 11 batters.
Born in Daleville, Virginia, Kelly played for the Newberry College Wolves from 2016 to 2017. His collegiate career was marked by a record of 15-7 and included five complete games, a 3.36 ERA, and 177 strikeouts in 168.2 innings pitched. Kelly’s journey back to the majors follows a period on the injured list due to an oblique injury, which saw him activated and optioned to Worcester on August 2. Upon his return to the minor league, he pitched 11.1 innings with a 5.56 ERA and a 1.32 WHIP.
The Red Sox called Kelly back up as part of their roster adjustments ahead of September, aiming to strengthen their bullpen with his return. Kelly’s performance in the game against the Red Sox reflects his evolving skills and resilience in the face of challenges in his professional baseball career.
Career Overview
Zack Kelly’s career has been punctuated by significant achievements, which include:
- Pro Debut: August 29, 2022, with the Boston Red Sox.
- Career Stats: A record of 7-3 over 70 appearances, with 79.2 innings pitched and 78 strikeouts.
- College Career: 15-7 record, 3.36 ERA, and 177 strikeouts at Newberry College.
Recent Performance
Kelly’s return to the MLB has sparked interest among fans and analysts alike, given his potential to impact upcoming games positively. His remarkable outing on Wednesday could serve as a strong foundation for future performance as the season progresses.
Injury Background
Following an injury earlier in the season, Kelly’s resilience and determination to return to the mound have been commendable. The Red Sox are hopeful that with his recent success in the majors, Kelly will continue to be a vital asset for the team as they chase postseason aspirations.
FAQ
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Performance Chart Comparison
| Feature | 2016-2017 (College) | 2022 (MLB) | 2023 (Recent Season) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Record | 15-7 | 7-3 | Unknown (ongoing season) |
| Innings Pitched | 168.2 | 79.2 | 26.2 (before recent game) |
| Strikeouts | 177 | 78 | 29 (before recent game) |
| Earned Run Average (ERA) | 3.36 | 3.97 | 5.56 (in AAA before promotion) |
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Additional Resources
- Newberry Observer: Former Newberry Star Zack Kelly Gets Called Back Up to the Big Leagues
- CBS Sports: Red Sox’s Zack Kelly Receives September Call-Up
- MLB: Red Sox Recall Right-Handed Pitcher Zack Kelly from Triple-A Worcester
- Sports Illustrated: Red Sox May Have Found Secret Weapon in Recent Triple-A Call-Up
- 985 The Sports Hub: Red Sox Roster Moves – September Expansion
- Wikipedia: Zack Kelly
- Google Search: Zack Kelly baseball
- Google Scholar: Zack Kelly
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Zack Kelly
- Google News: Zack Kelly
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
The NEWBERRY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewberry.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Newberry, Newberry County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Newberry Opera House performances, Newberry Arts Fest, and the Newberry County Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and the Newberry Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and agriculture that power the local economy such as Amick Farms and Newberry Mills. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
