Report: D-Backs agree to 1-year deal with Ian Kennedy

The Arizona Diamondbacks further bolstered their bullpen Sunday by agreeing to a one-year, $4.75-million contract with reliever Ian Kennedy, according to Jon Heyman of MLB Network.

Kennedy made 290 starts before moving to the bullpen in 2019. He posted a 3.20 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, 26 saves, and 62 strikeouts in 56 1/3 innings last season with the Texas Rangers and Philadelphia Phillies.

The 37-year-old right-hander will likely compete with fellow offseason addition Mark Melancon for closing duties. Melancon signed in Arizona prior to the lockout after converting a career-high 39 saves with the San Diego Padres in 2021.

Arizona's bullpen struggled last season, ranking 28th in ERA and 29th in strikeouts while finishing last in saves, WHIP, and opponents' batting average.