Joe Kelly

Boston Red Sox's Joe Kelly pitches during the first inning of a game against the Cleveland Indians in Boston on Saturday, May 21, 2016. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)

(Michael Dwyer)

After three rehab outings for Short Season Lowell, Joe Kelly returned to Triple-A Pawtucket on Friday and dominated.

The Boston Red Sox have converted Kelly from a starter to a reliever.

Kelly pitched the eighth and ninth innings, allowing just one hit and no walks while striking out three. He earned the save in Pawtucket's 2-0 victory over Charlotte.

The lone hit the 28-year-old righty allowed was a single with two outs in the eighth. He got a ground out, fly out and pop out during the eighth.

The fireballer then struck out the side during the ninth inning. He punched out everyone swinging.

Kelly has posted a 5.00 ERA and 1.48 WHIP in 41 starts for Boston since being traded to the Red Sox from St. Louis at the July 2014 non-waiver deadline.

In 30 relief outings (52 2/3 innings) for the Cardinals, Kelly recorded a 3.25 ERA, 1.35 WHIP and 8.4 strikeouts per nine innings.

Kelly potentially could help the Red Sox bullpen during the second half if he continues to pitch well. But he's going to have to earn the spot.

Red Sox manager John Farrell said about Kelly last week, "I don't want him groomed as just a one-inning guy. I think if and when the need arrives for him to come back to us, wouldn't want five or six one-inning relievers. I don't know if we can afford that."