Arubian Pitcher Antwone Kelly Starts 2026 Campaign with Indianapolis Indians
Indianapolis, IN – Antwone Kelly, the 22-year-old right-handed pitcher from Oranjestad, Aruba, has begun the 2026 season with the Indianapolis Indians, the Triple-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. This assignment follows a period of significant development for the promising young arm, building on a strong foundation established in the minor leagues and highlighted by international competition.
International Stage and Spring Training
Kelly recently impressed while representing the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, facing a formidable lineup from Venezuela. His performance on the international stage continued to build his experience against high-level competition. Prior to the start of the Triple-A season, Kelly also participated in his first Major League Spring Training with the Pittsburgh Pirates, competing against established big league talent and refining his pitching arsenal.
A Rising Prospect in the Pirates Organization
The Pirates organization has assigned Kelly to Indianapolis to continue his development and prepare him for the next step in his career. According to MLB.com, Kelly is considered a key prospect within the Pirates system. In 2025, Kelly posted a 3.02 ERA over 25 games (all starts) with the Indianapolis Indians, pitching 107.1 innings and striking out 116 batters while maintaining a WHIP of 1.06. His overall minor league career stats show a 3.44 ERA over 77 games (57 starts), with 302 strikeouts in 280.1 innings pitched.
Recent Transactions and Career Progression
Kelly’s path to Indianapolis has involved several transactions over the past year. On March 9, 2026, the Pittsburgh Pirates optioned Kelly to the Indianapolis Indians. Prior to that, on March 5, 2026, he was assigned to the Pittsburgh Pirates Prospects list. He was activated by the Kingdom of the Netherlands on February 5, 2026, following the Pirates selecting his contract from the Altoona Curve on November 18, 2025. He was previously activated by the Altoona Curve on June 24, 2025, after being assigned there from the Greensboro Grasshoppers. Before Greensboro, Kelly was assigned to the Bradenton Marauders on April 4, 2025, and activated from the 7-day injured list on August 24, 2024, after being placed on the injured list on June 29, 2024. His journey began with an assignment to the Bradenton Marauders from the FCL Pirates on August 31, 2023, and activation by the Pirates Organization on April 27, 2023.
Looking Ahead
Kelly’s goal is clear: to continue gaining experience, refining his skills, and remaining prepared for the opportunity when the call to the majors arrives. The Pirates are carefully monitoring his progress, and a strong performance in Triple-A could expedite his path to Pittsburgh. He’s a player to watch for Pirates fans eager to spot the next wave of talent reach the big leagues.
The Indianapolis Indians begin a homestand on March 27th against the St. Paul Saints. Kelly will be looking to build on his already impressive minor league resume and contribute to the Indians’ success. Fans can follow Kelly’s progress and the Indianapolis Indians schedule on the team’s official website.
Antwone Kelly represents a growing trend of international talent making an impact in Major League Baseball. His dedication and performance are a testament to his hard work and potential. As he continues to develop, he’s poised to become a valuable asset to the Pittsburgh Pirates organization.
For those following Kelly’s career, his continued success in Triple-A will be a key indicator of his readiness for the major leagues. The Pirates will undoubtedly be closely evaluating his performance, looking for signs that he’s prepared to make the jump to the highest level of the sport.
The 2026 season promises to be an exciting one for Antwone Kelly, and fans in both Aruba and Pittsburgh will be eagerly following his journey.
Next up for Antwone Kelly and the Indianapolis Indians is their game against the St. Paul Saints on March 27th. Be sure to check the Indianapolis Indians official website for updates and broadcast information.
What are your thoughts on Antwone Kelly’s potential? Share your predictions in the comments below!
