Carson Franklin Kelly: A Way Through Major League Baseball
Introduction
Carson Franklin Kelly is a professional catcher in baseball famous for gritty defensive skills and field leadership. From high school sensation to breaking history with the Chicago Cubs, his way through Major League Baseball (MLB) is one of grit and determination.
Early Career and MLB Debut
He was brought up in Beaverton, Oregon, and born in Chicago. Kelly demonstrated his baseball talent at Westview High School, and was 2011 and 2012 Gatorade Oregon Player of the Year. He was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals with their second-round selection in the 2012 MLB Draft, and converted into a catcher after he made a position change from an infielder, which would become his trademark.
After years in the minor leagues working on his defensive game, Kelly was finally given a chance to make his MLB debut with the Cardinals on September 5, 2016. With Yadier Molina being the team's veteran catcher, however, he was not afforded much playing time. In an effort to gain more playing time, he was traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2018.
Breakthrough with the Diamondbacks
Kelly quickly became the Diamondbacks' everyday catcher. In 2019, he burst onto the scene with a season that equaled the franchise record for a catcher's home runs in a season with 18. His defense behind the plate with pitchers and his hitting made him a solid contributor to the team.
Despite having some of his seasons cut short by injury, Kelly was a steady presence behind the plate. His defense and leadership helped to stabilize the Diamondbacks' pitching staff and further cemented his status as an excellent MLB catcher.
Time with the Tigers and Rangers
In August 2023, Kelly was signed by the Detroit Tigers and played in 60 games in 2024 with a batting average of .240, seven home runs, and 29 RBIs. He was later traded to the Texas Rangers during mid-season, where he continued to showcase his defensive skills as well as his old-school leader presence.
Back to Chicago with the Cubs
On December 13, 2024, Kelly inked a two-year, $10 million deal with the Chicago Cubs, his hometown. He was an instant contributor, becoming the first Cub since Mark Grace did so in 1993 when he hit for the cycle on March 31, 2025, in an 18-3 trouncing of the Oakland Athletics.
Conclusion
Carson Kelly's MLB career is one of grit, determination, and resilience. From high school sensation to vital contributor for the Cubs, his defensive skills and ability to contribute at the plate make him an invaluable asset. Along the way, Kelly's leadership and ability behind the plate will continue to be instrumental in his team's success.
