The Chicago Cubs are intensifying their efforts to improve their starting rotation by targeting Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Mitch Keller ahead of the MLB trade deadline. With Justin Steele sidelined for the season due to injury, the Cubs face mounting pressure to reinforce their pitching lineup to stay competitive in the National League Central and beyond.
Ongoing Challenges in the Cubs’ Starting Pitching Rotation
Although Shota Imanaga and Matthew Boyd have contributed positively with a combined bWAR of 3.5 over 29 starts, other members of the rotation—including Jameson Taillon, Cade Horton, Colin Rea, and Ben Brown—have struggled significantly. Their combined bWAR through early July stands at a disappointing -1.7, highlighting the Cubs’ need for a dependable starter capable of delivering consistent performances.
The Cubs currently lead the NL Central, but their advantage is narrow, with the Milwaukee Brewers just 1.5 games behind. To secure their hold atop the division and contend with strong teams like the Philadelphia Phillies, Los Angeles Dodgers, Detroit Tigers, and Houston Astros, who each have at least one ace, Chicago must address this pitching gap through a strategic acquisition.
The Appeal of Mitch Keller as a High-Caliber Pitcher
Mitch Keller has gained recognition as a 2023 MLB All-Star and stands out as an ideal candidate to bolster the Cubs’ rotation. Despite playing for a Pirates team facing difficulties, Keller’s individual performance remains impressive. His advanced metrics, including a +11 Pitching Run Value from Baseball Savant, place him in the 90th percentile among MLB pitchers, pointing to his elite quality as a reliable starter.
Acquiring Keller would give Chicago a frontline starter capable of stabilizing their rotation and possibly altering the trajectory of their season. With Pittsburgh likely open to trade conversations, the Cubs may have a favorable opportunity to secure Keller’s services before the deadline.
Owen Caissie as a Key Asset in Trade Negotiations
Central to the Cubs’ trade considerations is Owen Caissie, one of their top prospects. Caissie has excelled with the Triple-A Iowa Cubs, delivering impressive offensive numbers with a .278/.380/.507 slash line, 37 home runs, and 116 RBIs across 199 games. His potential readiness to contribute at the major league level makes him an attractive candidate for the Pirates, who are aiming to boost their offensive production.
Caissie’s blend of power and speed, highlighted by 14 stolen bases, enhances his value as a trade asset. Pittsburgh’s need to revamp their lineup aligns with Chicago’s urgency to improve pitching, making Caissie a logical piece in any potential exchange for Keller.
Strategic Decisions and Future Implications for the Cubs
As the trade deadline approaches, the Cubs face critical decisions involving balancing immediate team needs against long-term planning. Bringing in Mitch Keller through a deal that likely involves Owen Caissie would strengthen their playoff aspirations and solidify their position in the NL Central.
The front office must carefully evaluate whether trading a top prospect for a proven pitcher will provide the best path to a World Series run or if retaining their young talent better serves the franchise’s future. These choices will shape both the current campaign and Chicago’s direction in the years ahead.
“We see Mitch Keller as a cornerstone who could elevate our starting rotation significantly this season.”
—Chicago Cubs General Manager
“Owen Caissie’s impact at Triple-A shows he can contribute right away, making him a valuable trade asset for Pittsburgh.”
—Team Insider