MLB Trade Deadline: Pirates Might Shop Mitch Keller as Toronto Emerges as Suitor
The MLB Trade Deadline is always on fans’ minds early in the season, but for Pirates fans, the focus has shifted toward potential departures. After a rough beginning to the season, Pittsburgh is trending toward being a seller come late July. One player now surfacing in trade discussions is Mitch Keller, with the Toronto Blue Jays appearing to be a logical destination.
Starting the season 12-26 has put Pittsburgh in a deep hole, making a playoff push seem increasingly unlikely. The team would need to put together major winning streaks throughout May and June to remain competitive. Among the likely trade chips, Andrew Heaney—who’s on a one-year contract—stands out. However, Keller could quietly become a more attractive option on the market.
A Bleacher Report article recently highlighted Toronto as a potential landing spot for Keller, particularly as the Blue Jays are set to lose two starting pitchers to free agency after the season. Keller’s affordable contract for a mid-rotation starter increases his appeal. Sandy Alcantara is another arm in trade talks, but with a larger salary commitment, Keller may be the more cost-effective option.
“Toronto is just one clear possibility,” writes Kerry Miller for Bleacher Report. “Other teams will surely express interest in the 2023 All-Star, who would slot in as a strong No. 3 in many rotations. If Pittsburgh can shed $60 million and strengthen its farm system during yet another losing season, it would be consistent with how they’ve operated for years.”
Pirates Trade Buzz: Is Mitch Keller on the Move at the 2025 Deadline?
Keller, drafted by Pittsburgh in 2014, has been one of the team’s rare All-Star selections in recent years. While his departure would be notable, he may not be considered essential to the Pirates’ long-term plans, making him a realistic trade piece.
Pittsburgh currently has an impressive wave of pitching talent in Triple-A, with several arms nearing MLB readiness. Bubba Chandler and Hunter Barco are close to making their big-league debuts. If both perform well at the top level by midseason, it could increase the likelihood of the Pirates pulling the trigger on a deal.
This could position the Pirates for a dominant rotation by 2026. A core of Paul Skenes, Jared Jones, Chandler, and Barco would provide a formidable starting group, with the potential to add a seasoned veteran to round it out. If trading Keller could bring in offensive reinforcements while maintaining momentum on the mound, he may become the team’s most tradable asset by the Deadline.
