Diamondbacks pitcher Merrill Kelly set to start tonight's Hops game as part of a rehab assignment

Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Merrill Kelly is working his way back from injury and as part of that process will make a rehab start for the Hillsboro Hops in their game against Everett at 7:05 p.m. tonight, at Hillsboro Ballpark.

Kelly has been out of action since injuring his shoulder on April 20, and after initially being put on the 15-day injured list, was placed on the 60-day injured list following further assessment.

Prior to his injury, Kelly started four games as part of the 2024 season, accumulating a 2-0 record and 2.29 ERA, while striking out 21 and walking six.

The 35-year-old righthander is in his sixth season in the big leagues, and last year started four postseason games for the Diamondbacks, including a World Series game against the Rangers in which he allowed one earned run on just three hits in seven innings of work.

Kelly is expected to throw four innings and/or 65 pitches against Everett.

According to organizational reports, if Kelly meets those projected goals, this could be his only rehab assignment prior to returning to the MLB club.