Interest in Mitch Keller, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ starting pitcher, has evolved recently, with the Chicago Cubs stepping back from leading the trade pursuit. Originally thought to be the primary contender for Keller, the Cubs are now reportedly viewing him as a secondary choice, according to Pirates insider Noah Hiles. Despite this change, Keller remains a sought-after player as the trade deadline approaches, with the New York Mets emerging as possible front-runners and the New York Yankees also entering the competition.
Assessing Keller’s Trade Value Amid Changing Team Interests
Though Mitch Keller does not carry the high profile of pitchers like Sandy Alcantara or Zac Gallen, his performance this season has been strong. Through the All-Star break, Keller posted a 3.48 ERA and a 3.33 FIP, while pitching 119 innings, marking him as a dependable presence on the mound. These numbers contribute to his appeal, especially for teams seeking reliable rotation options under contract control.
Keller’s contract includes roughly three years remaining with about $55.7 million guaranteed, a deal that compares favorably to other recent starting pitcher contracts such as Yusei Kikuchi’s three years for $63 million, Luis Severino’s three years for $67 million, and Sean Manaea’s three years for $75 million. This cost-effectiveness combined with consistent production makes him an attractive acquisition target for clubs looking to build around young, controlled talent.
Widening Demand Among Contenders Ahead of Trade Deadline
The addition of the Mets and Yankees into the bidding war signifies a broader market for Keller, who now faces interest from several playoff contenders. Other teams in need of starting pitching, including the Dodgers, Red Sox, and Astros, could also become active participants, especially if injuries affect rotation depth across the league. Even with the Cubs stepping back, Keller’s market remains robust, ensuring the Pirates will likely receive valuable prospects or assets in return.
Given Keller’s expected role as a rotation mainstay through at least the 2026 season, acquiring him represents a long-term strategic investment rather than just a short-term rental. His contract’s relative affordability in comparison to last year’s free agent signings highlights Keller’s unique position as a controlled and effective arm that fits well within the plans of competitive teams looking beyond this season.