Christopher Smith of MassLive.com stated that “it definitely should be interesting to see how Kelly performs in 2016 after such a successful second-half run during 2015 and also with [David] Price there to provide advice.” With a top ace like Price in the rotation, Kelly should be able to learn how to command his fastball and sustain his success for the long term.
Smith also stated, “The Red Sox like Kelly a lot. They resisted trading him. They wanted him to be a part of the 2016 rotation over Wade Miley, a proven 200-inning pitcher.