The Pittsburgh Pirates are facing the possibility of becoming sellers in the trade market this summer, mainly due to their current position at the bottom of the NL Central standings. Writer Kerry Miller from Bleacher Report has proposed that the Pirates might consider trading starting pitcher Mitch Keller to the Toronto Blue Jays.
With both Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer set to hit free agency at the end of the season and Kevin Gausman having just one year left on his contract, the Blue Jays could benefit from acquiring Keller. His contract runs through 2028, presenting a cost-effective solution compared to navigating a competitive free agency landscape with significant financial commitments already tied up in players like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and others. Even if the Pirates stumble further in the standings, securing Keller could be a strategic long-term play for Toronto, and if they remain competitive, it could enhance their roster further.
Keller’s performance this season shows a 1-3 record with a 4.38 ERA and 29 strikeouts over seven starts. Having spent seven seasons with the Pirates, he is among the team’s longest-serving players. Should the right offer arise, it may be time for Keller and the Pirates to part ways for the benefit of both parties, particularly as the team looks to bolster its farm system while managing the financial implications of another challenging season.
Trading Keller could reflect a broader strategy for the Pirates, allowing them to save approximately $60 million while generating prospects, aligning with their historical approach during rebuilding phases. While the prospects of trading away a long-time player can evoke mixed feelings among fans, it serves as a reminder of the cycle of rebuilding that teams undergo in pursuit of future success.