Joe Kelly is a pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers. He was born on June 9, 1988, in Anaheim, California. Kelly grew up in a family of athletes, with both of his parents being former college athletes.
Joe Kelly's Father
Joe Kelly's father, Joe Kelly Sr., played football at Worcester State University in Massachusetts. He was a defensive back and was known for his hard hits on the field.
After college, Joe Kelly Sr. coached high school football and track and field. He instilled his love of sports in his son, Joe Jr., who began playing baseball at a young age.
Joe Kelly's Mother
Joe Kelly's mother, Karen Kelly, played softball at Springfield College in Massachusetts. She was a pitcher and was known for her accuracy and control on the mound.
After college, Karen Kelly became a physical education teacher, coaching softball and basketball at the high school level. She also instilled her love of sports in her son, Joe Jr., who excelled in both baseball and basketball in high school.
Joe Kelly's Childhood
Joe Kelly grew up in a sports-loving family. He played baseball and basketball in high school, and was a standout athlete in both sports.
After graduating from high school, Joe Kelly attended the University of California, Riverside, where he played baseball for the Highlanders. He was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the third round of the 2009 MLB draft.
Joe Kelly's MLB Career
Joe Kelly made his MLB debut with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2012. He spent four seasons with the Cardinals, and was a member of the team's 2013 National League championship team.
In 2015, Joe Kelly was traded to the Boston Red Sox. He spent three seasons with the Red Sox, and was a member of the team's 2018 World Series championship team.
In 2019, Joe Kelly signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He has been a key member of the team's bullpen, helping the Dodgers win the National League West division title in both 2019 and 2020.
Joe Kelly's Personal Life
Joe Kelly is married to Ashley Parks. The couple has two children together, a son named Knox and a daughter named Blake.
Off the field, Joe Kelly is known for his love of music and country living. He often spends his free time playing guitar and enjoying the outdoors.
Conclusion
Joe Kelly's parents, Joe Kelly Sr. and Karen Kelly, instilled their love of sports in their son at a young age. Kelly's childhood and college years were filled with sports, which helped him become the successful MLB player he is today. He has been a key member of the Los Angeles Dodgers bullpen, helping the team win multiple division titles in recent years.