Diamondbacks star Merrill Kelly says he has to be unique on the mound: "I don't have the stuff of Zack Wheeler"
Merrill Kelly stepped on the mound to try and stave off defeat. Heading into one of the most raucous road environments in all of sports, the Arizona Diamondbacks needed to win just to force a Game 7. They did that, thanks to enough offense and a masterful performance from Kelly.
He was masterful through five innings, striking out eight batters while allowing just three hits and a run. He was incredible when the D'Backs needed it most.
Kelly said following his impressive outing:
"Yeah, you know that's how I make my living. I don't have the stuff of Zack Wheeler, I don't have the curveball that Aaron Nola has. I feel like I make my living by throwing pitches that those guys think aren't coming. When I can do that, when I can locate them, I feel like I got a pretty good shot at just about everybody."
He claims he's not as filthy as Zack Wheeler or Aaron Nola, so he has to be unique on the mound.
The pitcher had to face one of the most daunting offenses in baseball led by Trea Turner, Kyle Schwarber and more. The Philadelphia Phillies are a dangerous team, especially at home, but Kelly was more than up to the task.
Turner was 0/4 in the contest and Bryce Harper struggled as well. Shutting them down is not easy, but Kelly and the Diamondbacks bullpen did just that and earned themselves a chance to play again tonight.
Merrill Kelly pitched Diamondbacks into Game 7
Falling down 3-2 in a series is never something that's easily come back from. Doing so before having to go on the road and face an intense crowd is even more difficult.
Merrill Kelly did that, giving his team another chance. With their backs completely up against the wall, Kelly showed up and showed out. It all comes down to Game 7, but there would be no Game 7 if not for his excellent pitching.
The two sides will face off again tonight, with Brandon Pfaadt following Kelly against Ranger Suarez. Awaiting them is a World Series berth and matchup with the Texas Rangers.
Can the rest of the Diamondbacks follow Kelly's lead and get back to the World Series for the first time in a long time?