New player personnel director Roland Hemond made his first deal in that capacity for the club. Hemond sent John “Pineapple” Matias and Gail Hopkins to the Royals for Don O’Riley and Pat Kelly.
Kelly, who was the brother of Cleveland Browns star running back Leroy Kelly, provided speed for the “New Look” White Sox. A solid hitter and leadoff man, Pat would make the All-Star Team in 1973, when he hit .280 with 22 steals. Kelly played for the Sox from 1971-76 and stole 119 bases.