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Kelly Stays with Diamondbacks, Cites Tax Benefits Over Padres

3/3/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Merrill Kelly, pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks, chose to return on a two-year, $40 million contract after turning down a three-year offer from the San Diego Padres.
California's 13% high-income tax versus Arizona's 2.5% was a key factor.
Kelly loves San Diego, but the tax difference made staying in Arizona sensible.
He was recently diagnosed with intercostal nerve irritation and hopes to avoid the injured list at the season's start.

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Story summary

Merrill Kelly, pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks, chose to return on a two-year, $40 million contract after turning down a three-year offer from the San Diego Padres.
California's 13% high-income tax versus Arizona's 2.5% was a key factor.
Kelly loves San Diego, but the tax difference made staying in Arizona sensible.
He was recently diagnosed with intercostal nerve irritation and hopes to avoid the injured list at the season's start.