In a recent SB Nation Reacts survey conducted this past Tuesday, fans revealed their preferred pitcher targets for the Chicago Cubs before the July 31 trade deadline, with Mitch Keller standing out as the top choice. Keller, currently with the Pittsburgh Pirates, has shown promising performance, making him a notable candidate in the Cubs trade discussions as they look to bolster their pitching staff.
Mitch Keller’s Performance and Contract Details
Mitch Keller has ranked among the Top 50 prospects for four consecutive years from 2017 through 2020 before securing a steady role in the Pirates’ starting rotation midway through 2021. His 2025 campaign has been particularly strong so far, highlighted by an impressive recent stretch where he posted a 2.32 ERA and a 0.914 WHIP across his last seven starts. While his strikeout rate has slightly diminished this season, Keller maintains a consistently low walk rate, which has been a career hallmark.
Keller’s contract extends for three more years beyond 2025, with an average annual value around $18 million. The Cubs have the payroll flexibility to absorb this commitment, especially with Jameson Taillon’s contract concluding after the 2026 season.
Trade Implications and Cubs’ Pitching Needs
The survey also indicated a desire among fans for the Cubs to acquire multiple starting pitchers, particularly given the injury sustained by Jameson Taillon. Although Colin Rea has performed solidly as the team’s fifth starter, many suggest the Cubs need to upgrade that position to remain competitive down the stretch. The trade deadline, just a week away, will be pivotal for evaluating how the Cubs address these roster needs.
Team Leadership Signals Imminent Trade Activity
According to a recent report in the Chicago Tribune, Cubs President Jed Hoyer indicated that any significant deals are likely to materialize within four days of the July 31 deadline rather than immediately. Emphasizing the flexibility in negotiations, Hoyer stated, “No one is untouchable,” referring to the possibility of moving top prospects if necessary.
While the first-place Cubs reached 19 games over .500 for the first time this season, they’re not resting on their laurels. But team President Jed Hoyer said before the game that any deals likely would come within four days of the July 31 deadline. He also said of potential trade bait among the Cubs’ top prospects: “No one is untouchable.”
—Jed Hoyer, Cubs Team President
Ongoing Fan Engagement and Broader Survey Insights
The SB Nation Reacts survey also covered other topics like the MLB Draft, the All-Star Game, and fan perceptions of prospects. For instance, enthusiasm for draft picks is tempered by the uncertainty surrounding players who have yet to make a professional appearance, such as Ethan Holliday, son of Matt Holliday and brother of Jackson Holliday, whose progress fans will be watching closely over the coming years.
Respondents also shared varied opinions on entertainment aspects of the season, noting that the Home Run Derby underwhelmed this year, whereas the All-Star Game delivered an exciting comeback and a memorable swing-off. Suggestions for improving the Futures Game included rescheduling it to the day following the All-Star Game and returning it to nine innings to gain better prominence during the baseball calendar.
Looking Ahead to the Trade Deadline and Season Impact
As the Cubs approach the July 31 cutoff to finalize trades, Mitch Keller stands as a leading figure among potential targets to strengthen Chicago’s pitching rotation. Securing a starter of Keller’s caliber could provide the team with an important boost amid injury concerns and the ongoing push for playoff success. With leadership signaling willingness to negotiate on top prospects and fans eager for upgrades, the coming days promise significant roster moves shaping the Cubs’ future.