SF Giants rumors: Giants-killer pitcher could be on his way out of NL West

The SF Giants are set to face off against Merrill Kelly and the Arizona Diamondbacks tonight. Kelly has had a good amount of success against the Giants in his career, but he could also be on the move soon which would be good news for the Giants.

In a recent article from MLB Trade Rumors, Kelly was listened as one of the potential players the Diamondbacks could trade if they decide to sell at the deadline. Arizona is right around .500 so it is unclear what approach they will take to the deadline.

SF Giants NL West nemesis could be on the move at trade deadline

In his career, Kelly has put up good numbers against the Giants. He has started 20 games against San Francisco which is the most he has faced any team. He has a record of 8-5 with a 3.18 ERA in 121 and 2/3 innings pitched.

Kelly had a great start against San Francisco back in May as he pitched seven innings and only allowed one run in a winning effort. It seems like evry time he faces the Giants he puts together a good start.

For the 2025 season, Kelly has a 7-4 record in 17 starts with a 3.49 ERA in 98 innings pitched. The 36-year-old is in the final year of his contract so it would make sense for Arizona to look to deal him if they decide their playoff chances are not great and they figure he will walk in free agency.

However, Arizona has had some tough injury luck with their starting rotation this year. Corbin Burnes, once thought to be an offseason target for the Giants, had to undergo Tommy John surgery so Arizona will be without one of their best pitchers the rest of the year. That could encourage Arizona to retain Kelly so they still have some solid arms.

For the sake of the Giants, they should hope Arizona moves on from Kelly and ideally send him to an American League team. Not only would they have to deal with him less, but it could mean they have to deal with one less team in the already crowded NL West if the Diamondbacks decide to sell. Kelly is considered one of the 25 best trade deadline targets so Arizona could field some strong offers.

Fingers crossed Kelly is on the move and fingers crossed he does not get the best of the Giants again in tonight's game.