This article was originally published on www.si.com/mlb/diamondbacks as Diamondbacks GM Explains Merrill Kelly Trade. On Thursday, the Arizona Diamondbacks' roster incurred heavy casualties as they sold off multiple key members of their roster at the July 31 Trade Deadline.

On top of that, the Rangers sent Arizona three minor league pitchers: LHP Kohl Drake, their closest-ready minor league starter, rising prospect David Hagaman and LHP Mitch Bratt. It’s safe to say the trade for Kelly was a vote of confidence in the team as the Rangers enter the home stretch in a tight playoff race.