Texas Rangers: If Brad Hand can return a top prospect, why can’t Keone Kela?

Statistics: Keone Kela compared to Brad Hand

Brad Hand has been recognized for much of the year as one of the best relievers in MLB. Keone Kela is without a doubt one of the best relievers in MLB; however, his recognition doesn’t compare to Hand’s. Putting national recognition behind, let’s breakdown each pitcher’s 2018 numbers…

Brad Hand

ERA: 3.05 (with San Diego)

K/9: 13.2

Home Runs Allowed: 5

WHIP: 1.083

Saves/Save Opportunities: 24/29

Keone Kela

ERA: 3.18

K/9: 10.9

Home Runs Allowed: 2

WHIP: 1.088

Saves/Save Opportunities: 23/23

Take your pick. Each reliever is clearly having a dominant season. Hand may raise eye brows ever so slightly more due to the fact that his dominance comes from the left side. Though, Kela has his fair share of eye brow-raising qualities as well.

This article isn’t about promoting Keone Kela or convincing viewers that he is better than Brad Hand. Rather, it’s purpose is to bring to light the fact that Kela is right there with Hand in quality and he should therefore receive similar treatment on the trade market.

If Hand is worth a top prospect then Kela should be too. Certainly, there is no considerable disparagement in numbers that would indicate otherwise. But, it’s not just about numbers. Maybe Hand’s contract is more friendly than Kela’s.