The Los Angeles Dodgers sent a message to fan favorite Joe Kelly on retiring after 13 MLB seasons.
More news: Kyle Tucker Sweepstakes Heat Up as Mets Make Offer With Dodgers Still in Mix
Kelly seemingly announced his playing career was over last month in an episode on his podcast with co-host Rob Bradford.
“I ain’t playing,” Kelly told Bradford on the Baseball Isn’t Boring podcast.
“There’s no such thing as retirement for athletes. Retiring is something my grandmother did. Let’s cancel the word retirement, it’s used for people who served in the military, for people who worked ’til 65. You guys deserve to retire, athletes don’t.”
The Dodgers took to social media to relay their congratulatory message for Kelly.
“Congratulations Joe Kelly on 13 seasons in the Majors filled with unforgettable moments. You’ll always have a home at Dodger Stadium, Champ!” the team’s post read on X (formerly known as Twitter).
More news: Dodgers’ Free Agent Target Kyle Tucker Could Sign This Week, Says Insider
The fan favorite received a message from the Dodgers, who he spent parts of five seasons with. Kelly first signed with the Dodgers in 2019 on a three-year, $29 million contract. He’s made 161 appearances for the Dodgers throughout his tenure, tossing 147.2 innings with a 3.72 ERA.
Kelly was apart of the Dodgers’ 2020 World Series run, throwing 3.2 innings and allowing one run. The right-hander left the Dodgers in 2022, signing with the Chicago White Sox on a two-year deal. Kelly then returned to LA via trade.
Kelly missed the 2024 postseason due to injury, sporting a 4.78 ERA across 32 innings pitched during the regular season. The right-hander then became a free agent after the 2024 season concluded.
More news: Dodgers Make Andy Ibañez Deal Official, DFA Recently-Acquired Utility Player
While the Dodgers did not bring Kelly back for the 2025 season, the team did explore a possible reunion in the summer. Ultimately, Kelly did not play for a team last season and officially hung up his cleats this winter.
More news: Dodgers Announce Fan Fest Details: Everything to Know
Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
