Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Mitch Keller has attracted attention from multiple teams leading up to the MLB trade deadline, with the New York Yankees now reportedly joining the New York Mets and Chicago Cubs in pursuit. The growing interest highlights Keller’s potential value for contenders seeking to strengthen their pitching staff before the deadline.
According to reports from Noah Hiles of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the Yankees have entered the discussion for Keller, who is considered a key target among several clubs. While the Mets remain highly interested and could be the leading contender to acquire him, the Cubs view Keller as more of a secondary option in their plans.
Pitching Needs Driving Trade Interest Among Contenders
The New York Mets’ desire to bolster their rotation intensified after placing Tylor Megill on the 60-day injured list due to an elbow sprain. Similarly, the Yankees are facing shortages in their pitching lineup. With Gerrit Cole and Clarke Schmidt both sidelined for the season, Luis Gil still progressing toward a return, and Ryan Yarbrough on the 15-day injured list, New York’s need for additional arms is urgent.
Yankees general manager Brian Cashman emphasized the team’s focus on pitching reinforcement earlier this month, stating,
“Whether it’s bullpen guys or starting pitchers, it’s just all of it,”
and adding,
“That’s the area. We have people that are capable, but I think it also needs to get some help. And if I can do so, great. But again, there’s no guarantees.”
Keller’s Performance and Pittsburgh’s Trade Situation
At 29 years old, Mitch Keller has spent all seven of his major league seasons with the Pirates. This season, he has posted one of his strongest performances, recording a 3.48 ERA and a 1.14 WHIP despite a 3-10 win-loss record reflecting Pittsburgh’s overall struggles. The Pirates, currently 39-58 and trailing the wild card race by 13.5 games, face uncertainty about how much they are willing to trade at the deadline.
If Pittsburgh opts to move Keller, the competition between the Mets and Yankees could intensify, potentially sparking a bidding war for the right-handed pitcher as both clubs seek to improve their starting rotations for the playoff push.
Implications for the MLB Trade Deadline
The inclusion of Mitch Keller on the trade radar reflects the active strategies teams are employing as the MLB trade deadline approaches. With multiple contenders like the Mets and Yankees targeting Keller to address critical pitching needs, the situation underscores how valuable starting pitchers are in shaping postseason prospects. The Pirates’ decision will influence how the race for Keller unfolds and could have significant implications for playoff contenders looking to finalize their rosters.