Zachary Rymer from Bleacher Report recently floated the idea that the Boston Red Sox might be theideal acquisition before the trade deadlinefor Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Mitch Keller. But would such a deal benefit everyone involved?
Rymer noted that Keller could be a good match for several teams, mentioning the Cubs and Blue Jays as examples of interested parties. However, he added that these two teams are likely seeking a starting pitcher with the potential to be a true ace, while Keller, despite his impressive career-high 121 ERA+, is probably better suited as a middle-of-the-rotation option.
He primarily induces ground balls and is valuable for his ability to pitch deep into games. In a weak pitching staff, he could be a second-best option. Ideally, he'd be a reliable third starter in a stronger rotation. The Red Sox are a great fit for him. They already have a true ace in Garrett Crochet, backed by strong pitchers like Brayan Bello and Lucas Giolito. However, after those three, they have an aging Walker Buehler and a long list of injured pitchers unable to fill the fifth starter role.
It would be logical for the Pirates to deal Keller.
Although Keller is a top-notch player and the team has him locked down, the Pirates have a surplus of starting pitchers. Paul Skenes is at the forefront, with Jared Jones proving to be a reliable second option when he's not injured. Despite the presence of some experienced pitchers in the current lineup, the Pirates' long-term pitching prospects lie within their minor league system.
Bubba Chandler, Braxton Ashcraft, Hunter Barco, and Thomas Harrington are all close to being ready for the major leagues and could potentially replace Keller.
To acquire Keller from the Pirates, the Red Sox would need to surrender a significant package of assets; however, obtaining a pitcher with multiple years remaining on his contract is essential for Boston's future.
The Red Sox are contenders this year, but their prime opportunity to win the World Series is just starting to emerge. This team is projected to be significantly more formidable in 2026, 2027, and subsequent years. Acquiring a pitcher whose contract extends through those seasons would be a wiser move than acquiring a short-term player.
More MLB: As the trade deadline nears, rumors suggest the Cubs might be interested in trading for Dylan Cease.
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