Jump to content

Keone Kela: Difference between revisions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
No edit summary
→References: rescue bare url dead citation (and format properly), and add missing info to other citations
 
(77 intermediate revisions by 29 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{short description|American baseball player}}
{{Short description|American baseball player (born 1993)}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=July 2024}}
{{Infobox baseball biography
{{Infobox baseball biography
|name=Keone Kela
|name=Keone Kela
Line 5: Line 6:
|image_size=
|image_size=
|caption=Kela with the [[Texas Rangers (baseball)|Texas Rangers]] in 2015
|caption=Kela with the [[Texas Rangers (baseball)|Texas Rangers]] in 2015
|team=San Diego Padres
|team=Tecolotes de los Dos Laredos
|number=
|number=29
|position=[[Pitcher]]
|position=[[Pitcher]]
|birth_date={{birth date and age|1993|4|16}}
|birth_date={{birth date and age|1993|4|16}}
|birth_place=[[Los Angeles]], [[California]]
|birth_place=[[Los Angeles]], [[California]], U.S.
|bats=Right
|bats=Right
|throws=Right
|throws=Right
Line 16: Line 17:
| debutyear = 2015
| debutyear = 2015
| debutteam = Texas Rangers
| debutteam = Texas Rangers
| statyear = 2020 season
| statyear = 2021 season
| statleague = MLB
| statleague = MLB
| stat1label = [[Win–loss record (pitching)|Win–loss record]]
| stat1label = [[Win–loss record (pitching)|Win–loss record]]
| stat1value = 21–11
| stat1value = 23–13
| stat2label = [[Earned run average]]
| stat2label = [[Earned run average]]
| stat2value = 3.24
| stat2value = 3.33
| stat3label = [[Strikeout]]s
| stat3label = [[Strikeout]]s
| stat3value = 266
| stat3value = 279
| teams =
| teams =
* [[Texas Rangers (baseball)|Texas Rangers]] ({{mlby|2015}}–{{mlby|2018}})
* [[Texas Rangers (baseball)|Texas Rangers]] ({{mlby|2015}}–{{mlby|2018}})
* [[Pittsburgh Pirates]] ({{mlby|2018}}–{{mlby|2020}})
* [[Pittsburgh Pirates]] ({{mlby|2018}}–{{mlby|2020}})
* [[San Diego Padres]] ({{mlby|2021}})
}}
}}
'''Keone Cole Kela''' (born April 16, 1993) is an American [[professional baseball]] [[pitcher]] with the [[San Diego Padres]]. He has played in [[Major League Baseball]] (MLB) for the [[Texas Rangers (baseball)|Texas Rangers]] and [[Pittsburgh Pirates]].
'''Keone Cole Kela''' (born April 16, 1993) is an American [[professional baseball]] [[pitcher]] for the [[Tecolotes de los Dos Laredos]] of the [[Mexican League]]. He has previously played in [[Major League Baseball]] (MLB) for the [[Texas Rangers (baseball)|Texas Rangers]], [[Pittsburgh Pirates]] and [[San Diego Padres]].


==Early life==
==Early life==
Kela attended [[Carson High School (Carson, California)|Carson Senior High School]] in [[Carson, California]], and graduated from [[Chief Sealth High School]] in [[Seattle, Washington]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/keone-kela-goes-from-seattle-high-schools-to-living-the-dream-of-playing-in-the-big-leagues/|title=Keone Kela goes from Seattle-area high schools to living the dream of playing in the big leagues|work=The Seattle Times|date=April 18, 2015|access-date=April 4, 2017}}</ref> He was chosen by the [[Seattle Mariners]] in the 29th round of the [[2011 MLB draft]], but did not sign and enrolled at [[Everett Community College]],<ref name=sealth/> where he played [[college baseball]] as a [[center fielder]] for one season.<ref name=lubbock/>
Kela attended [[Carson High School (Carson, California)|Carson Senior High School]] in [[Carson, California]], and graduated from [[Chief Sealth High School]] in [[Seattle, Washington]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Divish |first=Ryan |date=April 18, 2015 |title=Keone Kela goes from Seattle-area high schools to living the dream of playing in the big leagues |url=http://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/keone-kela-goes-from-seattle-high-schools-to-living-the-dream-of-playing-in-the-big-leagues/ |url-access=subscription |access-date=April 4, 2017 |work=The Seattle Times}}</ref> He was chosen by the [[Seattle Mariners]] in the 29th round of the [[2011 MLB draft]], but did not sign and enrolled at [[Everett Community College]],<ref name=sealth/> where he played [[college baseball]] as a [[center fielder]] for one season.<ref name=lubbock/>


==Career==
==Career==


===Texas Rangers===
===Texas Rangers===
The [[Texas Rangers (baseball)|Texas Rangers]] selected Kela as a [[pitcher]] in the 12th round, with the 396th overall selection, of the [[2012 MLB draft]].<ref name=sealth>{{cite web|url=http://www.westseattleherald.com/2012/06/06/sports/chief-sealth-graduate-keone-kela-picked-texas-r |title=Chief Sealth graduate Keone Kela picked by Texas Rangers in 2012 Baseball Draft &#124; West Seattle Herald / White Center News |publisher=Westseattleherald.com |date=June 6, 2012 |access-date=May 15, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170405073643/http://www.westseattleherald.com/2012/06/06/sports/chief-sealth-graduate-keone-kela-picked-texas-r|archive-date=April 5, 2017}}</ref><ref name=lubbock/> Kela signed with the Rangers following the draft.<ref name=s-t/>
The [[Texas Rangers (baseball)|Texas Rangers]] selected Kela as a [[pitcher]] in the 12th round, with the 396th overall selection, of the [[2012 MLB draft]].<ref name="sealth">{{cite web |date=June 6, 2012 |title=Chief Sealth graduate Keone Kela picked by Texas Rangers in 2012 Baseball Draft |url=https://www.westsideseattle.com/west-seattle-herald/2012/06/06/chief-sealth-graduate-keone-kela-picked-texas-rangers-2012-baseball |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170405073643/http://www.westseattleherald.com/2012/06/06/sports/chief-sealth-graduate-keone-kela-picked-texas-r |archive-date=April 5, 2017 |access-date=2024-10-05 |website=West Seattle Herald}}</ref><ref name=lubbock/> Kela signed with the Rangers following the draft.<ref name=s-t/>


In 2013, Kela reached the [[Class A (baseball)|Class A]] [[South Atlantic League]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://rangersblog.dallasnews.com/2014/01/texas-rangers-prospect-continues-streak-in-venezuela.html/ |title=Texas Rangers prospect continues streak in Venezuela &#124; Dallas Morning News |publisher=Rangersblog.dallasnews.com |date=January 12, 2014 |access-date=May 15, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140528100612/http://rangersblog.dallasnews.com/2014/01/texas-rangers-prospect-continues-streak-in-venezuela.html/ |archive-date=May 28, 2014 }}</ref> He started the 2014 season in [[Class A-Advanced]], and was promoted to the [[Frisco RoughRiders]] of the [[Class AA]] [[Texas League]].<ref name=s-t>{{cite web|last=Davison |first=Drew |url=http://www.star-telegram.com/2014/05/10/5809648/keone-kela-is-driven-to-be-texas.html |title=Keone Kela is driven to be Texas Rangers' future closer|work=[[Fort Worth Star-Telegram]] |date=May 10, 2014 |access-date=May 15, 2014}}</ref> The Rangers invited Kela to [[spring training]] in 2015.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dallasnews.com/sports/texas-rangers/headlines/20150319-grant-the-future-appears-bright-for-the-rangers-but-is-it-close.ece?hootPostID=6709cfb7fa5ddc56f2aacbed5b21ecbb|title=Grant: The future appears bright for the Rangers, but is it close?|first=Evan|last=Grant|work=Dallas Morning News|date=March 19, 2015|access-date=March 20, 2015}}</ref> Kela made the Rangers' [[Opening Day]] roster.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.star-telegram.com/sports/mlb/texas-rangers/article17386610.html|title=Rookies DeShields Jr., Kela add youth, speed to Rangers' roster|work=star-telegram|access-date=April 5, 2015}}</ref> He collected his first career win against the Oakland Athletics on May 2, 2015. Kela finished his 2015 season with a 2.39 [[earned run average]] (ERA). He had elbow surgery and missed three months of the 2016 season. He pitched to a 5-1 record with a 6.09 ERA in 35 games in 2016.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.star-telegram.com/sports/mlb/texas-rangers/article142088894.html|title=Rangers demote Kela to preserve clubhouse chemistry|work=Star-Telegram|access-date=April 4, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=T.R. Sullivan |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/rangers-rely-on-keone-kela-tanner-scheppers/c-218389076 |title=Rangers rely on Keone Kela, Tanner Scheppers |work=MLB.com |date=January 20, 2016 |access-date=February 8, 2018}}</ref>
In 2013, Kela reached the [[Class A (baseball)|Single–A]] [[South Atlantic League]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Fraley |first=Gerry |date=January 12, 2014 |title=Texas Rangers prospect continues streak in Venezuela |url=http://rangersblog.dallasnews.com/2014/01/texas-rangers-prospect-continues-streak-in-venezuela.html/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140528100612/http://rangersblog.dallasnews.com/2014/01/texas-rangers-prospect-continues-streak-in-venezuela.html/ |archive-date=May 28, 2014 |website=Dallas Morning News}}</ref> He started the 2014 season in [[Class A-Advanced|High–A]], and was promoted to the [[Frisco RoughRiders]] of the [[Class AA|Double–A]] [[Texas League]].<ref name=s-t>{{cite web|last=Davison |first=Drew |url=http://www.star-telegram.com/2014/05/10/5809648/keone-kela-is-driven-to-be-texas.html |title=Keone Kela is driven to be Texas Rangers' future closer|work=[[Fort Worth Star-Telegram]] |date=May 10, 2014 |access-date=May 15, 2014}}</ref> The Rangers invited Kela to [[spring training]] in 2015.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dallasnews.com/sports/texas-rangers/headlines/20150319-grant-the-future-appears-bright-for-the-rangers-but-is-it-close.ece?hootPostID=6709cfb7fa5ddc56f2aacbed5b21ecbb|title=Grant: The future appears bright for the Rangers, but is it close?|first=Evan|last=Grant|work=Dallas Morning News|date=March 19, 2015|access-date=March 20, 2015|archive-date=November 22, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151122190015/http://www.dallasnews.com/sports/texas-rangers/headlines/20150319-grant-the-future-appears-bright-for-the-rangers-but-is-it-close.ece?hootPostID=6709cfb7fa5ddc56f2aacbed5b21ecbb|url-status=dead}}</ref> Kela made the Rangers' [[Opening Day]] roster.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.star-telegram.com/sports/mlb/texas-rangers/article17386610.html|title=Rookies DeShields Jr., Kela add youth, speed to Rangers' roster|work=star-telegram|access-date=April 5, 2015}}</ref> He collected his first career win against the Oakland Athletics on May 2, 2015. Kela finished his 2015 season with a 2.39 [[earned run average]] (ERA). He had elbow surgery and missed three months of the 2016 season. He pitched to a 5-1 record with a 6.09 ERA in 35 games in 2016.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.star-telegram.com/sports/mlb/texas-rangers/article142088894.html|title=Rangers demote Kela to preserve clubhouse chemistry|work=Star-Telegram|access-date=April 4, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=T.R. Sullivan |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/rangers-rely-on-keone-kela-tanner-scheppers/c-218389076 |title=Rangers rely on Keone Kela, Tanner Scheppers |work=MLB.com |date=January 20, 2016 |access-date=February 8, 2018}}</ref>


After he showed an unprofessional lack of effort in a minor league intrasquad game, the Rangers decided to option Kela to the [[Round Rock Express]] of the [[Class AAA]] [[Pacific Coast League]] for the start of the 2017 season.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.star-telegram.com/sports/mlb/texas-rangers/article142465809.html|title=Sources: Players support Rangers' decision to ship out Kela|work=Star-Telegram|access-date=April 4, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://sportsday.dallasnews.com/texas-rangers/rangers/2017/04/03/source-keone-kelas-surprise-demotion-revealed-edgy-relievers-future-rangers|title=Source of Keone Kela's surprise demotion revealed; what is the edgy reliever's future with Rangers? - SportsDay|date=April 3, 2017|work=Dallas Morning News|access-date=April 4, 2017}}</ref> He made 39 appearances for the Rangers in 2017, missing time with a stiff right shoulder.<ref name=lubbock>{{cite web|author=A-J Media |url=http://lubbockonline.com/sports/news/2018-01-25/rangers-keone-kela-aims-healthy-productive-season |title=Rangers' Keone Kela aims for healthy, productive season &#124; Lubbock Online &#124; Lubbock Avalanche-Journal |publisher=Lubbock Online |date=January 25, 2018 |access-date=February 8, 2018}}</ref> After the 2017 season, Kela underwent [[stem-cell therapy]] to treat his right shoulder.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://sportsday.dallasnews.com/texas-rangers/rangers/2018/01/27/stem-cell-therapy-taken-weight-offkeone-kelas-shoulder |title=Texas Rangers: Stem-cell therapy has taken a weight off Keone Kela's shoulder &#124; SportsDay |publisher=Sportsday.dallasnews.com |access-date=February 8, 2018}}</ref> Kela became the Rangers [[closer (baseball)|closer]] in 2018.<ref>https://www.star-telegram.com/sports/mlb/texas-rangers/article207280129.html</ref>
After he showed an unprofessional lack of effort in a minor league intrasquad game, the Rangers decided to option Kela to the [[Round Rock Express]] of the [[Class AAA|Triple–A]] [[Pacific Coast League]] for the start of the 2017 season.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.star-telegram.com/sports/mlb/texas-rangers/article142465809.html|title=Sources: Players support Rangers' decision to ship out Kela|work=Star-Telegram|access-date=April 4, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://sportsday.dallasnews.com/texas-rangers/rangers/2017/04/03/source-keone-kelas-surprise-demotion-revealed-edgy-relievers-future-rangers|title=Source of Keone Kela's surprise demotion revealed; what is the edgy reliever's future with Rangers? - SportsDay|date=April 3, 2017|work=Dallas Morning News|access-date=April 4, 2017}}</ref> He made 39 appearances for the Rangers in 2017, missing time with a stiff right shoulder.<ref name="lubbock">{{cite web |author=Williams |first=Don |date=January 25, 2018 |title=Rangers' Keone Kela aims for healthy, productive season |url=https://www.lubbockonline.com/story/news/2018/01/25/rangers-keone-kela-aims-healthy-productive-season/14829698007/ |access-date=February 8, 2018 |website=Lubbock Avalanche-Journal}}</ref> After the 2017 season, Kela underwent [[stem-cell therapy]] to treat his right shoulder.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://sportsday.dallasnews.com/texas-rangers/rangers/2018/01/27/stem-cell-therapy-taken-weight-offkeone-kelas-shoulder |title=Texas Rangers: Stem-cell therapy has taken a weight off Keone Kela's shoulder &#124; SportsDay |date=28 January 2018 |publisher=Sportsday.dallasnews.com |access-date=February 8, 2018}}</ref> Kela became the Rangers [[closer (baseball)|closer]] in 2018.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stevenson |first=Stefan |date=March 29, 2018 |title=For starters, Keone Kela to get first shot as Rangers' closer |url=https://www.star-telegram.com/sports/mlb/texas-rangers/article207280129.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180731183417/https://www.star-telegram.com/sports/mlb/texas-rangers/article207280129.html |archive-date=July 31, 2018 |access-date=2024-10-05 |website=Fort Worth Star Telegram}}</ref>


===Pittsburgh Pirates===
===Pittsburgh Pirates===
On July 31, 2018, the Rangers traded Kela to the [[Pittsburgh Pirates]] for [[Taylor Hearn (baseball)|Taylor Hearn]] and Sherten Apostel.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/pirates-acquire-reliever-keone-kela/c-288152682 |title=Pirates acquire reliever Keone Kela |work=MLB.com|date= July 31, 2018 |access-date=July 31, 2018}}</ref>
On July 31, 2018, the Rangers traded Kela to the [[Pittsburgh Pirates]] for [[Taylor Hearn (baseball)|Taylor Hearn]] and [[Sherten Apostel]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Berry |first=Adam |date=July 31, 2018 |title=Pirates acquire reliever Keone Kela |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/pirates-acquire-reliever-keone-kela/c-288152682 |access-date=July 31, 2018 |work=MLB.com}}</ref>


In an April 7, 2019 game against the [[Cincinnati Reds]], Kela was ejected after his role in a bench clearing incident involving [[Chris Archer]], [[Derek Dietrich]], [[Yasiel Puig]], [[Amir Garrett]], [[David Bell (baseball)|David Bell]], and [[Felipe Vázquez]]. On July 30, 2019, Kela was involved in a second bench-clearing fracas against the Reds, and was suspended for 2 games on August 1.
In an April 7, 2019 game against the [[Cincinnati Reds]], Kela was ejected after his role in a bench clearing incident involving [[Chris Archer]], [[Derek Dietrich]], [[Yasiel Puig]], [[Amir Garrett]], [[David Bell (baseball)|David Bell]], and [[Felipe Vázquez]]. On July 30, 2019, Kela was involved in a second bench-clearing fracas against the Reds, and was suspended for 2 games on August 1. Kela made 32 appearances for the Pirates in 2019, pitching to a 2.12 ERA with 33 strikeouts in 29.2 innings of work. In 2020, Kela only made 3 appearances for the team, giving up 1 run in 2.0 innings with 3 strikeouts.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Keone Kela Stats, Fantasy & News |url=https://www.mlb.com/player/keone-kela-605309 |access-date=2024-10-05 |website=MLB.com}}</ref>

===San Diego Padres===
On February 18, 2021, Kela signed a one-year, 1.2MM contract with the [[San Diego Padres]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-02-18 |title=Padres sign RHP Keone Kela to one-year contract |url=https://www.mlb.com/press-release/press-release-padres-sign-rhp-keone-kela-to-one-year-contract |access-date=2024-10-05 |website=MLB.com}}</ref> On May 19, 2021, Kela underwent [[Tommy John surgery]], ending his 2021 season.<ref>{{cite web |last=Byrne |first=Connor |date=May 19, 2021 |title=Keone Kela Undergoes Tommy John Surgery |url=https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2021/05/keone-kela-undergoes-tommy-john-surgery.html |access-date=2024-10-05 |website=MLB Trade Rumors}}</ref> In 12 games for San Diego, Kela pitched to a 2-2 record and 5.06 ERA with 13 strikeouts. On May 23, Kela was placed on the 60-day injured list as he recovered from the surgery.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2021/05/padres-activate-wil-myers-option-brian-ogrady-to-triple-a.html|title = Padres Activate Wil Myers, Option Brian O'Grady to Triple-A| date=May 23, 2021 }}</ref>

===Arizona Diamondbacks===
On March 16, 2022, Kela signed a minor league deal with the [[Arizona Diamondbacks]]. He was released on August 31.

===Los Angeles Dodgers===
On September 1, 2022, Kela signed a minor league deal with the [[Los Angeles Dodgers]]. He pitched {{fraction|6|2|3}} innings over seven games for the Triple-A [[Oklahoma City Dodgers]], allowing six earned runs for a 6.75 ERA.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/team.cgi?id=4ebc22b8|title=2022 Oklahoma City Dodgers|work=Baseball Reference|accessdate=September 28, 2022}}</ref> He elected free agency following the season on November 10.<ref>{{Cite web|title=2022-23 Minor League Free Agents For All 30 MLB Teams|url=https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories/2022-23-minor-league-free-agents-for-all-30-mlb-teams/?amphtml|access-date=July 12, 2023|website=baseballamerica.com|date=November 13, 2022 |language=en}}</ref>

===Tokyo Yakult Swallows===
On December 21, 2022, Kela signed with the [[Tokyo Yakult Swallows]] of [[Nippon Professional Baseball]] (NPB).<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-12-21 |title=ヤクルトが新助っ人のケラを獲得　メジャー通算243登板のリリーフ候補 |script-title=ja:Yakuruto ga shin suketto no kera o kakutoku mejā tsūsan 243 tōban no rirīfu kōho |trans-title=Yakult acquires new relief pitcher Kera, a relief candidate with 243 appearances in the majors |url=https://news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/cb27f179685fdcaea359b231154de4a3192ef55d |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221221212304/https://news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/cb27f179685fdcaea359b231154de4a3192ef55d |archive-date=2022-12-21 |website=Yahoo! Japan}}</ref> He made 15 appearances for the farm team, but struggled to a 7.71 ERA with 16 strikeouts and 3 saves in 14.0 innings pitched. Kela did not appear for the Swallows in 2023, and was released by the club on July 13, 2023.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Kioni Kera, the right-hand man who joined Yakult this season, has a free contract|url=https://news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/0c6f3ab847e0f8da2fcb6cbe4d90f77bf5b33fac|access-date=July 12, 2023|website=news.yahoo.co.jp|language=en}}</ref>

===Tecolotes de los Dos Laredos===
On February 6, 2024, Kela signed with the [[Tecolotes de los Dos Laredos]] of the [[Mexican League]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=LMB: Movimientos en listas de reserva - 6 de febrero de 2024|url=https://www.milb.com/mexican/news/lmb-movimientos-en-listas-de-reserva-6-de-febrero-de-2024|access-date=February 7, 2024|website=milb.com|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Tecos: Kela, Burgos y Sittinger; tres brazos de calidad Grandes Ligas|url=https://www.milb.com/mexican/news/tecos-kela-burgos-y-sittinger-tres-brazos-de-calidad-grandes-ligas|access-date=February 17, 2024|website=milb.com|language=en}}</ref> In 42 relief outings for Dos Laredos, he compiled a 2.70 ERA with 40 strikeouts across 40 innings pitched. On July 23, Kela was suspended by the team for the remainder of the season as a result of discipline problems.<ref>{{Cite web|title=LMB: Movimientos en listas de reserva - 23 de julio de 2024|url=https://www.milb.com/mexican/news/lmb-movimientos-en-listas-de-reserva-23-de-julio-de-2024|access-date=July 24, 2024|website=milb.com|language=en}}</ref>


==Personal==
==Personal==
When Kela was born, his mother was only 16 years old, and his father was just 15 years old.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.star-telegram.com/2014/08/30/6080288/minor-league-insider-young-life.html|title=Minor league Insider: Young life lessons help Frisco pitcher mature|work=star-telegram|access-date=April 5, 2015}}</ref> Though Kela was born in [[Los Angeles]], much of his father's family is from [[Hawaii]]. His grandparents are from Keaukaha on the [[Hawaii (island)|Big Island]], where Kela spent each summer, enjoying [[Puhi Bay]] and [[Hilo]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hawaiitribune-herald.com/sections/sports/local-sports/hilo-gains-another-face-show.html |title=Hilo gains another face in the show |publisher=Hawaii Tribune-Herald |date=August 3, 2012 |access-date=May 15, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201034353/http://www.hawaiitribune-herald.com/sections/sports/local-sports/hilo-gains-another-face-show.html|archive-date=December 1, 2017}}</ref>
When Kela was born, his mother was only 16 years old, and his father was just 15 years old.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.star-telegram.com/2014/08/30/6080288/minor-league-insider-young-life.html|title=Minor league Insider: Young life lessons help Frisco pitcher mature|work=star-telegram|access-date=April 5, 2015|archive-date=October 11, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141011191959/http://www.star-telegram.com/2014/08/30/6080288/minor-league-insider-young-life.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> Though Kela was born in [[Los Angeles]], much of his father's family is from [[Hawaii]]. His grandparents are from Keaukaha on the [[Hawaii (island)|Big Island]], where Kela spent each summer, enjoying [[Puhi Bay]] and [[Hilo]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hawaiitribune-herald.com/sections/sports/local-sports/hilo-gains-another-face-show.html |title=Hilo gains another face in the show |publisher=Hawaii Tribune-Herald |date=August 3, 2012 |access-date=May 15, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201034353/http://www.hawaiitribune-herald.com/sections/sports/local-sports/hilo-gains-another-face-show.html|archive-date=December 1, 2017}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
Line 55: Line 72:
==External links==
==External links==
{{Commons category}}
{{Commons category}}
{{Baseballstats|mlb=605309|espn=33497|br=k/kelake01|fangraphs=14696|brm=kela--000keo}}
{{Baseballstats|mlb=605309|espn=33497|br=k/kelake01|fangraphs=14696|brm=kela--000keo|retro=K/Pkelak001}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Kela, Keone}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kela, Keone}}
⚫
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:1993 births]]
[[Category:1993 births]]
⚫
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:American expatriate baseball players in Mexico]]
[[Category:American expatriate baseball players in Venezuela]]
[[Category:American people of Native Hawaiian descent]]
[[Category:American people of Native Hawaiian descent]]
[[Category:Arizona Complex League Diamondbacks players]]
[[Category:Arizona League Rangers players]]
[[Category:Arizona League Rangers players]]
[[Category:Baseball players from Los Angeles]]
[[Category:Baseball players from Los Angeles]]
[[Category:Baseball players from Washington (state)]]
[[Category:Baseball players from Seattle]]
[[Category:Everett Trojans baseball players]]
[[Category:Everett Trojans baseball players]]
[[Category:Frisco RoughRiders players]]
[[Category:Frisco RoughRiders players]]
[[Category:Hickory Crawdads players]]
[[Category:Hickory Crawdads players]]
[[Category:Indianapolis Indians players]]
[[Category:Major League Baseball pitchers]]
[[Category:Major League Baseball pitchers]]
[[Category:Myrtle Beach Pelicans players]]
[[Category:Myrtle Beach Pelicans players]]
[[Category:Navegantes del Magallanes players]]
[[Category:Navegantes del Magallanes players]]
[[Category:Oklahoma City Dodgers players]]
[[Category:Pittsburgh Pirates players]]
[[Category:Pittsburgh Pirates players]]
[[Category:Reno Aces players]]
[[Category:Round Rock Express players]]
[[Category:San Diego Padres players]]
[[Category:Spokane Indians players]]
[[Category:Spokane Indians players]]
[[Category:Sportspeople from Seattle]]
[[Category:Surprise Saguaros players]]
[[Category:Surprise Saguaros players]]
[[Category:Tecolotes de los Dos Laredos players]]
[[Category:Texas Rangers players]]
[[Category:Texas Rangers players]]

Latest revision as of 04:05, 5 October 2024

Keone Kela
Kela with the Texas Rangers in 2015
Tecolotes de los Dos Laredos – No. 29
Pitcher
Born: (1993-04-16) April 16, 1993 (age 31)
Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Bats: Right
Throws: Right
MLB debut
April 7, 2015, for the Texas Rangers
MLB statistics
(through 2021 season)
Win–loss record23–13
Earned run average3.33
Strikeouts279
Stats at Baseball Reference Edit this at Wikidata
Teams

Keone Cole Kela (born April 16, 1993) is an American professional baseball pitcher for the Tecolotes de los Dos Laredos of the Mexican League. He has previously played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Texas Rangers, Pittsburgh Pirates and San Diego Padres.

Early life

[edit]

Kela attended Carson Senior High School in Carson, California, and graduated from Chief Sealth High School in Seattle, Washington.[1] He was chosen by the Seattle Mariners in the 29th round of the 2011 MLB draft, but did not sign and enrolled at Everett Community College,[2] where he played college baseball as a center fielder for one season.[3]

Career

[edit]

Texas Rangers

[edit]

The Texas Rangers selected Kela as a pitcher in the 12th round, with the 396th overall selection, of the 2012 MLB draft.[2][3] Kela signed with the Rangers following the draft.[4]

In 2013, Kela reached the Single–A South Atlantic League.[5] He started the 2014 season in High–A, and was promoted to the Frisco RoughRiders of the Double–A Texas League.[4] The Rangers invited Kela to spring training in 2015.[6] Kela made the Rangers' Opening Day roster.[7] He collected his first career win against the Oakland Athletics on May 2, 2015. Kela finished his 2015 season with a 2.39 earned run average (ERA). He had elbow surgery and missed three months of the 2016 season. He pitched to a 5-1 record with a 6.09 ERA in 35 games in 2016.[8][9]

After he showed an unprofessional lack of effort in a minor league intrasquad game, the Rangers decided to option Kela to the Round Rock Express of the Triple–A Pacific Coast League for the start of the 2017 season.[10][11] He made 39 appearances for the Rangers in 2017, missing time with a stiff right shoulder.[3] After the 2017 season, Kela underwent stem-cell therapy to treat his right shoulder.[12] Kela became the Rangers closer in 2018.[13]

Pittsburgh Pirates

[edit]

On July 31, 2018, the Rangers traded Kela to the Pittsburgh Pirates for Taylor Hearn and Sherten Apostel.[14]

In an April 7, 2019 game against the Cincinnati Reds, Kela was ejected after his role in a bench clearing incident involving Chris Archer, Derek Dietrich, Yasiel Puig, Amir Garrett, David Bell, and Felipe Vázquez. On July 30, 2019, Kela was involved in a second bench-clearing fracas against the Reds, and was suspended for 2 games on August 1. Kela made 32 appearances for the Pirates in 2019, pitching to a 2.12 ERA with 33 strikeouts in 29.2 innings of work. In 2020, Kela only made 3 appearances for the team, giving up 1 run in 2.0 innings with 3 strikeouts.[15]

San Diego Padres

[edit]

On February 18, 2021, Kela signed a one-year, 1.2MM contract with the San Diego Padres.[16] On May 19, 2021, Kela underwent Tommy John surgery, ending his 2021 season.[17] In 12 games for San Diego, Kela pitched to a 2-2 record and 5.06 ERA with 13 strikeouts. On May 23, Kela was placed on the 60-day injured list as he recovered from the surgery.[18]

Arizona Diamondbacks

[edit]

On March 16, 2022, Kela signed a minor league deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks. He was released on August 31.

Los Angeles Dodgers

[edit]

On September 1, 2022, Kela signed a minor league deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He pitched 6+2⁄3 innings over seven games for the Triple-A Oklahoma City Dodgers, allowing six earned runs for a 6.75 ERA.[19] He elected free agency following the season on November 10.[20]

Tokyo Yakult Swallows

[edit]

On December 21, 2022, Kela signed with the Tokyo Yakult Swallows of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB).[21] He made 15 appearances for the farm team, but struggled to a 7.71 ERA with 16 strikeouts and 3 saves in 14.0 innings pitched. Kela did not appear for the Swallows in 2023, and was released by the club on July 13, 2023.[22]

Tecolotes de los Dos Laredos

[edit]

On February 6, 2024, Kela signed with the Tecolotes de los Dos Laredos of the Mexican League.[23][24] In 42 relief outings for Dos Laredos, he compiled a 2.70 ERA with 40 strikeouts across 40 innings pitched. On July 23, Kela was suspended by the team for the remainder of the season as a result of discipline problems.[25]

Personal

[edit]

When Kela was born, his mother was only 16 years old, and his father was just 15 years old.[26] Though Kela was born in Los Angeles, much of his father's family is from Hawaii. His grandparents are from Keaukaha on the Big Island, where Kela spent each summer, enjoying Puhi Bay and Hilo.[27]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Divish, Ryan (April 18, 2015). "Keone Kela goes from Seattle-area high schools to living the dream of playing in the big leagues". The Seattle Times. Retrieved April 4, 2017.
  2. ^ a b "Chief Sealth graduate Keone Kela picked by Texas Rangers in 2012 Baseball Draft". West Seattle Herald. June 6, 2012. Archived from the original on April 5, 2017. Retrieved October 5, 2024.
  3. ^ a b c Williams, Don (January 25, 2018). "Rangers' Keone Kela aims for healthy, productive season". Lubbock Avalanche-Journal. Retrieved February 8, 2018.
  4. ^ a b Davison, Drew (May 10, 2014). "Keone Kela is driven to be Texas Rangers' future closer". Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Retrieved May 15, 2014.
  5. ^ Fraley, Gerry (January 12, 2014). "Texas Rangers prospect continues streak in Venezuela". Dallas Morning News. Archived from the original on May 28, 2014.
  6. ^ Grant, Evan (March 19, 2015). "Grant: The future appears bright for the Rangers, but is it close?". Dallas Morning News. Archived from the original on November 22, 2015. Retrieved March 20, 2015.
  7. ^ "Rookies DeShields Jr., Kela add youth, speed to Rangers' roster". star-telegram. Retrieved April 5, 2015.
  8. ^ "Rangers demote Kela to preserve clubhouse chemistry". Star-Telegram. Retrieved April 4, 2017.
  9. ^ T.R. Sullivan (January 20, 2016). "Rangers rely on Keone Kela, Tanner Scheppers". MLB.com. Retrieved February 8, 2018.
  10. ^ "Sources: Players support Rangers' decision to ship out Kela". Star-Telegram. Retrieved April 4, 2017.
  11. ^ "Source of Keone Kela's surprise demotion revealed; what is the edgy reliever's future with Rangers? - SportsDay". Dallas Morning News. April 3, 2017. Retrieved April 4, 2017.
  12. ^ "Texas Rangers: Stem-cell therapy has taken a weight off Keone Kela's shoulder | SportsDay". Sportsday.dallasnews.com. January 28, 2018. Retrieved February 8, 2018.
  13. ^ Stevenson, Stefan (March 29, 2018). "For starters, Keone Kela to get first shot as Rangers' closer". Fort Worth Star Telegram. Archived from the original on July 31, 2018. Retrieved October 5, 2024.
  14. ^ Berry, Adam (July 31, 2018). "Pirates acquire reliever Keone Kela". MLB.com. Retrieved July 31, 2018.
  15. ^ "Keone Kela Stats, Fantasy & News". MLB.com. Retrieved October 5, 2024.
  16. ^ "Padres sign RHP Keone Kela to one-year contract". MLB.com. February 18, 2021. Retrieved October 5, 2024.
  17. ^ Byrne, Connor (May 19, 2021). "Keone Kela Undergoes Tommy John Surgery". MLB Trade Rumors. Retrieved October 5, 2024.
  18. ^ "Padres Activate Wil Myers, Option Brian O'Grady to Triple-A". May 23, 2021.
  19. ^ "2022 Oklahoma City Dodgers". Baseball Reference. Retrieved September 28, 2022.
  20. ^ "2022-23 Minor League Free Agents For All 30 MLB Teams". baseballamerica.com. November 13, 2022. Retrieved July 12, 2023.
  21. ^ "ヤクルトが新助っ人のケラを獲得　メジャー通算243登板のリリーフ候補" Yakuruto ga shin suketto no kera o kakutoku mejā tsūsan 243 tōban no rirīfu kōho [Yakult acquires new relief pitcher Kera, a relief candidate with 243 appearances in the majors]. Yahoo! Japan. December 21, 2022. Archived from the original on December 21, 2022.
  22. ^ "Kioni Kera, the right-hand man who joined Yakult this season, has a free contract". news.yahoo.co.jp. Retrieved July 12, 2023.
  23. ^ "LMB: Movimientos en listas de reserva - 6 de febrero de 2024". milb.com. Retrieved February 7, 2024.
  24. ^ "Tecos: Kela, Burgos y Sittinger; tres brazos de calidad Grandes Ligas". milb.com. Retrieved February 17, 2024.
  25. ^ "LMB: Movimientos en listas de reserva - 23 de julio de 2024". milb.com. Retrieved July 24, 2024.
  26. ^ "Minor league Insider: Young life lessons help Frisco pitcher mature". star-telegram. Archived from the original on October 11, 2014. Retrieved April 5, 2015.
  27. ^ "Hilo gains another face in the show". Hawaii Tribune-Herald. August 3, 2012. Archived from the original on December 1, 2017. Retrieved May 15, 2014.
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Keone Kela.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Keone_Kela&oldid=1249479296"