Blue Jays, Yankees, Cubs Seek Pirates Pitcher Mitch Keller Trade

Mitch Keller, the Pittsburgh Pirates' right-handed starting pitcher, has become a highly sought-after trade candidate ahead of the MLB trade deadline, drawing interest from multiple postseason contenders including the Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, New York Mets, and Chicago Cubs. Keller is enjoying one of the best seasons of his career, with a 3.48 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, and 14 quality starts over 20 starts, despite a 3-10 record, and is under team control through 2028 with a five-year, $77 million contract. The Blue Jays are particularly motivated to acquire Keller to strengthen their rotation, as they face upcoming free agency losses of key pitchers Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer, along with uncertainties around Kevin Gausman and Jose Berrios, while also contending with injuries to several promising young arms. Keller’s consistent performance, affordable contract, and ability to provide reliable quality starts make him an attractive fit for Toronto’s playoff push and long-term rotation stability. Pittsburgh is expected to be a seller at the trade deadline, with Keller likely the most valuable player available, and he has no no-trade clause, increasing his marketability. Keller himself remains focused on his performance despite trade rumors, emphasizing the need to move past speculation and contribute to the team.