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Mets Interested In Mitch Keller

By Mark Polishuk | July 5, 2025 at 12:15pm CDT

The Mets have shown interest in Pirates right-hander Mitch Keller, according to Noah Hiles of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.  New York joins the Cubs as teams known to be linked to Keller, who placed second on MLBTR’s ranking of the top 40 trade candidates heading into the deadline.

It was just a week ago that the Mets got an up-close look at Keller when he held them to one run over 5 1/3 innings in Pittsburgh’s 9-1 victory over New York on June 27.  That outing was part of a nice five-start stretch for Keller that has seen the righty post a 2.40 ERA over his last 30 innings of work.  For the season as a whole, Keller has a 3.64 ERA over 106 1/3 innings, delivering both quality and reliability over his regular turns in the Pittsburgh rotation.

This durability likely has particular appeal for a Mets pitching staff that has been hit hard by injuries.  Of the five pitchers who have tossed the most innings for New York this season, Kodai Senga and Tylor Megill are on the 15-day injured list, and Griffin Canning recent underwent a season-ending surgery to fix a ruptured Achilles.  Sean Manaea has yet to pitch this season due to an oblique strain and then a loose body found in his throwing elbow, but he is scheduled to make his return from the IL before the All-Star break.

Since Senga could also be back within the week, the Mets could roll with a rotation of Senga, Manaea, Clay Holmes, David Peterson, and Frankie Montas through July to see if this starting five is enough to strengthen the team’s hopes of capturing the NL East and then a World Series title.  Given all of the question marks within that group, adding a stable arm like Keller would certainly seem like a logical move to keep the rotation strong for the stretch run.

Beyond the prospect cost of a Keller trade, the Mets would face a particular financial penalty if they were to take on most or all of the right-hander’s remaining contract.  Keller is owed the remainder of his $15MM salary for 2025, and is then owed $54.5MM over the course of the 2026-28 seasons.  That would put another hefty commitment on the books for a Mets team whose luxury tax number (roughly $326.8MM, as per RosterResource) is well over the maximum tax penalty tier of $301MM.

Some salary offset could be included in any potential trade between the Mets and Pirates, though that would run counter to the Bucs’ desire to shed some payroll by moving Keller in the first place.  With so much young pitching either already in Pittsburgh’s rotation or on the cusp of the majors, the thinking has been that the Pirates would move at least one or both of Keller and impending free agent Andrew Heaney in order to add some young talent (probably on the offensive side), create more openings for Triple-A call-ups, and to create financial flexibility.

“There seems to be a line of thinking where if they can get that money off the payroll, it can be used to acquire a hitter,” a source tells Hiles, which perhaps hints at a scenario where the Pirates could then pivot to acquire a somewhat pricey bat (likely a veteran).  This would indicate a strategy of both selling and buying at the deadline, with the additions being aimed for either the future or perhaps even the short-term.  Despite their 38-51 record, the Pirates haven’t yet fully committed to a full-on sale at the deadline, as the source says that the club’s 6-0 homestand this week might have created some hope that a later surge is possible.

Broadly, the team has played better since Derek Shelton was fired as manager, and interim skipper Don Kelly has led the team to a 26-25 record.  Still, the Bucs remain solidly in last place in the NL Central, and it would take a major hot streak just to get to .500, let alone in contention.  While Pittsburgh might not be ready to explore trades this early into July, the team remains “one of a few teams expected to sell this trade season,” as Hiles puts it.  It is also fair to assume that the budget-conscious Pirates would always be open moving Keller’s contract regardless of their place in the standings, even in the unlikely scenario that the team does catch fire in the weeks leading up to the deadline.

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176 Comments

  1. Joel from NY

    1 week ago

    I’m mighty curious what the prospect cost might be. The Mets absolutely should not part with Jett Williams, Ronnie Mauricio, Tong, Sproat, or MacLean. The others can be discussed.

    4
    Reply
    • horaceallen

      1 week ago

      Yeah, any of those would be an overpay if Keller is all the Mets get. Cubs might be willing to go higher.

      Reply
      • Vealparm

        1 week ago

        @horaceallen Cherington would laugh his head off if any one of those guys was offered for Keller.
        😂 😆

        4
        Reply
        • Mendoza Line 215

          7 days ago

          Let them dream.

          Reply
    • Wire to wire 2024

      1 week ago

      Is that their top 5?

      Reply
      • Joel from NY

        1 week ago

        More or less, although Mauricio may have played too much in the big time to be considered a prospect. Great tools, I’d never trade him.

        3
        Reply
        • seamaholic 2

          1 week ago

          Mauricio doesn’t get Keller. Or really even close.

          4
          Reply
      • SgtGrumbles

        1 week ago

        I would add Carson Benge and Jesus Baez as potential targets for other teams. Mauricio probably has lost some Shine after the last few weeks, but is probably still considered a top 10 in the Mets system.

        1
        Reply
      • Mets Era Thumping Soto

        1 week ago

        Carson Benge will be the best of all of them.

        2
        Reply
    • Mets Era Thumping Soto

      1 week ago

      I would part ways with Mauricio for him. Keller is controlled for three more years.

      8
      Reply
      • Sourhaze

        1 week ago

        You part with Mauricio in a second and dont look back mets era indeed. A solid rotation guy for a below average player? Hell yeah

        7
        Reply
        • Mets Era Thumping Soto

          1 week ago

          It’s not like Mauricio would be the only player going to the Pirates. They would get some other prospects.

          1
          Reply
        • Buckner

          1 week ago

          With taking on Keller’s contract? I don’t believe so.

          I’d find a way to send Starling Marte back to his original team, to pair with McCutchen. As a salary offset in this trade. But that would likely kill the chance of a deal with the Pittsburgh skinflints.

          2
          Reply
        • greatwhiteangus

          1 week ago

          Bucs can’t have 2 DHs play at the same time

          3
          Reply
        • WashedUpOldTimer

          1 week ago

          Skinflints?
          The Pirates reached their PR quota for the Nutting era by bringing Cutch back. The icing on the cake is that at 38, he’s one of their best players. I like Marte, but even Nutting knows there’s only so much feel-good PR he can do and still have a losing franchise

          Reply
        • Nate83

          1 week ago

          His contact is very manageable for a 200 inning guy for almost any other large market team. It’s only a large contract because the Mets are already over the luxury tax. The Cubs have no such problem and either do other teams that might want him so there is no way you get him if you want money going back to the Pirates.

          3
          Reply
        • Buckner

          1 week ago

          Would you prefer I use the term “tightwads,” instead, OldTimer?

          Reply
        • WashedUpOldTimer

          1 week ago

          LOL. Even that is being too kind to ownership here

          Reply
        • bucsfan0004

          7 days ago

          Keller is outplaying his contract, so Mets attempts at lowballing him is just going to result in Keller playing for a different contender. I am interested to see Keller’s ceiling if and when he can ever pitch with a lead

          2
          Reply
    • Sourhaze

      1 week ago

      I have no idea what Ronnie Maurico has done for the mets. He swings like a butcher and hits mistakes. He isnt a stud and so far looks like his ceiling is a below average player

      Mets obsession with this dude should be studied. Giving up Ronnie Mauricio for Mitch Keller, if the pirates take it, the mets should never look back

      8
      Reply
      • Joel from NY

        1 week ago

        Disagree, I think he just needs reps. Quick bat, fast as anything, great arm.

        2
        Reply
        • Sourhaze

          1 week ago

          The less he plays the better. He cant even run properly.

          He has “tools”? 5 of them or just speed, below average defense and below average offense? Very tools guy indeed. 4 dont work

          2
          Reply
        • Joel from NY

          1 week ago

          Not a fan, huh?

          3
          Reply
        • Buckner

          1 week ago

          Disagree. Makes terrible decisions at the plate AND in the field.
          And, just my opinion, he has terrible body language. He gives the appearance like he doesn’t care. No hustle.

          Give him away, before you won’t be able to get anything for him.

          2
          Reply
        • seamaholic 2

          1 week ago

          I’ve seen a lot of him in AA. He’s not a major league hitter, just a big athletic hacker.

          1
          Reply
        • WashedUpOldTimer

          1 week ago

          For a minute, I thought you were talking about Cruz. Same description

          Reply
        • Joel from NY

          1 week ago

          Terrible body language? Hmmm…some pundits were writing this year about Soto’s awful body language. For some reason, I haven’t been reading that the past month or so. I wonder why?

          Reply
      • Mets Era Thumping Soto

        1 week ago

        Are you judging a players ceiling on him coming back from a major knee injury and not tearing it up instantly. I agree he won’t be a super star but he could be a very valuable player that plays multiple positions and can hit 30 home runs. Something the Pirates need badly.

        3
        Reply
        • Sourhaze

          1 week ago

          No im judging him based on last season and whatever he has played this season. Its not his running, he runs well, is that he makes bone head benching worthy running mistakes.

          Mauricio can hit 30 home runs? That’s to be seen. If he does it will be the empty home runs ever. Probably like a .210 average. 260 OBP and 30 home runs.

          1
          Reply
        • Mets Era Thumping Soto

          1 week ago

          He didn’t play last season. He has a little over 150 major league abs. Not exactly a huge sample to size to say he’s limited.

          3
          Reply
        • I speak the truth

          1 week ago

          We already have O’Neal Cruz.

          3
          Reply
        • Buckner

          1 week ago

          He may hit 30 home runs. And get 38 hits. Along with 200k’s in a season. Pirates already have too many guys who swing from their heels.

          1
          Reply
        • TheMan 3

          1 week ago

          baseball reference says he already has more than 38 hits
          Its called research

          Reply
    • joes-6

      1 week ago

      Of course, any New York team is obligated to pay nothing for Keller. Its the way New York fans work.

      4
      Reply
      • Mets Era Thumping Soto

        1 week ago

        I think you fail to realize how deep the Mets farm system is.

        Reply
        • SgtGrumbles

          1 week ago

          It’s not full with multiple high ceiling players. About as deep as your local community pool. Probably on the better side of top 15 in MLB.

          Reply
        • Buckner

          1 week ago

          Stearns has made it clear the kids will not be moved. The kids HE drafted.

          1
          Reply
        • Boston’s Alignment

          1 week ago

          You believe in Santa too.

          Reply
    • RichardJarzynka

      1 week ago

      Then the Mets are NOT getting Mitch Keller.

      2
      Reply
    • AAAAProspect

      1 week ago

      I’m not saying you’re wrong, but I remember the Yankees not getting Cole because they wouldn’t trade Fraiser or Andujar. Prospects, no matter how good they look, are volitile.

      1
      Reply
    • 16

      1 week ago

      Good luck, starting pitching is the single hottest commodity at the deadline and the Mets don’t have a strong nor deep enough farm to try and hold back their top 5.

      Reply
      • Mets Era Thumping Soto

        1 week ago

        Starting pitching is almost all that’s on the trade market. Try getting a shortstop or center fielder. The Mets farm system is one of the deepest in baseball. Ridiculous to argue otherwise.

        Reply
    • TheMan 3

      1 week ago

      Unlike previous trade deadlines, Cherington isn’t going to be giving away players just to cut payroll
      If the Mets don’t offer what he wants, they won’t be getting Keller

      Reply
      • Boston’s Alignment

        1 week ago

        DUHHH!

        Reply
    • metzfan

      1 week ago

      metzfan there’s a lot more prospects you are forgetting that they can’t include like Acuña and Clifford to name 2. if they have to take on that kind of payroll they aren’t going to give up a very good Prospect

      Reply
      • kzw

        1 week ago

        @metzfan…Did you just reply to yourself or announce your presence before you spoke?

        1
        Reply
    • Tugboat54

      1 week ago

      Who cares about prospects? Just get him out of here. Haven’t you heard? The Pirates are losing money. Some sportswriter says so, so it must be true. Hillbilly Bob needs the money.

      1
      Reply
  2. Nomar 2

    1 week ago

    I can see Ryan Clifford as a Pirate.

    Reply
    • Joel from NY

      1 week ago

      Both he and Gilbert haven’t blossomed as hope, at least not yet.

      1
      Reply
      • Buckner

        1 week ago

        Both need a little more time. Patience.

        Reply
  3. bigdaddyt

    1 week ago

    Isn’t everyone? If I’m the jays I’m offering up Martinez (former top 100 prospect) and a couple other little pieces for Keller and maybe see about adding Bednar

    1
    Reply
  4. Mets Era Thumping Soto

    1 week ago

    Clifford and Gilbert.

    Reply
    • Buckner

      1 week ago

      Holy moly NO

      1
      Reply
  5. WashedUpOldTimer

    1 week ago

    Interesting that fans want the Pirates to give away Keller for “little pieces”. The guy is a good pitcher on a bad team. Quite literally, you could reverse his W/L record this year as he’s gotten no support. No, I don’t think he should bring back a haul of young talent but he’d be a good, reliable starter for any contender down the stretch.

    4
    Reply
    • Joel from NY

      1 week ago

      Listen, maybe what we send you will be the next Crow-Armstrong! That one really hurts, btw.

      7
      Reply
      • Buckner

        1 week ago

        If the Mets take his full contract, with those future options, they should send no players back in return.

        2
        Reply
        • Nate83

          1 week ago

          This is an insane take. You have pitchers getting injured left and right and a guy is available who gives you 160-200 innings every year and averages 2.5 WAR the last 3 years and on pace for over 3 WAR this year. When his contract fets to the 18 million number in 2028 it will be bargain compared to the contacts that are signed by similar pitchers that year.

          3
          Reply
        • TJECK109

          1 week ago

          Nate83 is Winner of the worse take of the week

          Reply
    • Mets Era Thumping Soto

      1 week ago

      Who mentioned little pieces? The Mets number 7 prospect is close to mlb top 100. Multiple prospects could be traded.

      4
      Reply
      • bigdaddyt

        1 week ago

        Might have been in reference to my comment above where I said Martinez (jays #3 ranked prospect) and add a few little pieces to the trade. If that’s right I should clarify little pieces being 1 or 2 prospects between 20-30 rankings and say a A ball lottery ticket. Which is exactly what the pirates have been looking for as they have plenty of impact pitching prospects but lacking position player prospects. Well id say Martinez is that and the pirates would have a good familiarity with him as well.

        3
        Reply
        • WashedUpOldTimer

          1 week ago

          Well explained. Thanks. Makes sense

          Reply
  6. Acoss1331

    1 week ago

    I don’t think Uncle Steve is going to care about paying more on the luxury tax considering how the Mets are trying to win and adding a quality starter would just be the price of doing business for them.

    There will be plenty of teams interested in Keller, let’s see who gives the Pirates the best offer.

    6
    Reply
    • Gwynning

      1 week ago

      That is, in essence, what it all boils down to. Slim SP market w/ numerous Buyers, Keller is “good” and signed for 3 more years at an affordable SP salary… gotta give to get, so PIT can sit back and assess the offers.

      10
      Reply
      • Boston’s Alignment

        1 week ago

        Yeah, AND there’s undoubtedly some more upside to Keller with a real team helping him be his best.

        5
        Reply
        • RichardJarzynka

          1 week ago

          Why aren’t the Mets getting enough upside from their current rotation to not need Keller?

          Reply
        • Boston’s Alignment

          1 week ago

          Because literally every freaking team is always trying to add pitching. There. Hope that helps you understand supply and demand.

          1
          Reply
        • rct

          1 week ago

          @RichardJarzynka: “Why aren’t the Mets getting enough upside from their current rotation to not need Keller?”

          Because Senga, Manaea, Canning, and Megill are all injured? And Montas is returning from injury? And even still, their rotation has one of the best ERAs in baseball. Silly question.

          Reply
        • Mendoza Line 215

          1 week ago

          Boston-That unreal team has developed a lot more young pitchers that the Red Sox have.
          A whole lot more.

          Reply
  7. Sourhaze

    1 week ago

    Acuna can go too.

    Dude has a flashy name. ZERO power. Zero recognition on how to get on base. 👋👋👋

    Needs to practice and get lessons from his superstar and incredibly talented brother who some idiot has the handle here Trade Acuna

    1
    Reply
    • Gwynning

      1 week ago

      Maybe he means *your* Acuña?

      2
      Reply
    • RichardJarzynka

      1 week ago

      In other words, the Pirates should refuse to take Acuna.

      2
      Reply
  8. cspera77

    1 week ago

    Just so we are all clear…The package to quite Keller will be at least 1 top 100 prospect, 1 top15 prospect in your farm and 1 lottery type player…think young guy with upside. Keller is a solid 2-3 starter with 3 years control on a cheap contract. The price to acquire him will hurt. The Mets don’t get him without giving up at least 1 of Jett Williams or Benge, plus two other solid pieces

    6
    Reply
    • Boston’s Alignment

      1 week ago

      Ummmmmm. No.

      5
      Reply
      • RichardJarzynka

        1 week ago

        Okay. The Pirates just move on to one of the many other teams who want Keller. Or keep him. He’s under a team-friendly contract for the next three seasons.

        3
        Reply
        • touch_the_floor

          1 week ago

          Exactly. Yankees may be calling too since Schmidt may be having TJS.
          SOMEONE will pay for Keller

          1
          Reply
    • Buckner

      1 week ago

      “ The package to quite Keller will be at least 1 top 100 prospect, 1 top15 prospect in your farm and 1 lottery type player…think young guy with upside…”

      Haha nooooooo

      4
      Reply
      • cspera77

        1 week ago

        What would you like to bet? Your house, car???

        Reply
    • rct

      1 week ago

      “The Mets don’t get him without giving up at least 1 of Jett Williams or Benge, plus two other solid pieces”

      That is a ridiculous asking price. No chance the Mets/Stearns would consider that. Williams or Benge alone is probably already more than they’d be willing to trade, much less ‘two other solid pieces’.

      This is literally the first season where Keller has been anything more than an average pitcher (albeit a durable one). He’s not bringing back a haul that big.

      2
      Reply
      • NMK 2

        1 week ago

        Some fans have ridiculous expectations. I still remember back in the day when Toronto was working on a trade for R.A. Dickey. Of course, we ended up with d’Arnaud, Syndergaard and more, but I listened to Toronto fans swear they were going to get our Cy Young-winning pitcher with the likes of Anthony Gose.

        Reply
  9. cwsOverhaul

    1 week ago

    No secret Pirates need instant or near ready offense. SP is at a premium. Benge fits the bill as headliner. Cubs would have to give up Caissie or Alcantara.
    Fanbases declaring everyone that would clearly sting to give up is “off limits” and proposing combo of next tier only works in amateur fantasy leagues.

    10
    Reply
    • Gwynning

      1 week ago

      Bingo! Good post Overhauler

      4
      Reply
      • Boston’s Alignment

        1 week ago

        Mets have Soto and Nimmo for a long time. Mets are only going to have CF open now and in the future. I don’t know if Benge can play mlb CF. Mets are not trading any possible CFs. I don’t think Benge will be dealt.

        Reply
  10. hoof hearted

    1 week ago

    Pitt needs offense, and not the Prospect type. Batty, and another young player that has shown ability to contribute at mlb

    2
    Reply
    • Gwynning

      1 week ago

      hoof, I didn’t see your post when I commented Baty+ below! Great minds think alike, braddha! Ha

      Reply
  11. RichardJarzynka

    1 week ago

    Mitch Keller has a 3.24 FIP, is on pace for 4.3 WAR, is under contract through 2028 for just $18.3M per year, and is wanted by many contending teams.

    And Mets fans think the Pirates should accept their team’s table scraps for him.

    8
    Reply
    • Boston’s Alignment

      1 week ago

      Just for the record, I never understand your posts. You are a baffling poster.

      Reply
      • RichardJarzynka

        1 week ago

        I am, indeed.

        1
        Reply
    • Buckner

      1 week ago

      $18 million/year for 3 more years?
      And you expect players to go back to Pittsburgh as well?

      For Mitch Keller? Nahhhhhh.

      Reply
      • cspera77

        1 week ago

        Do you even know baseball, like at all. Obviously not or your would know that’s a bargain contract for a starter of his caliber. He would get 25 mill a year on the open market today. It’s not 1987 anymore

        10
        Reply
      • Nate83

        1 week ago

        Do you even understand baseball and what a number 2 or 3 starter that is reliable cost?

        3
        Reply
        • NMK 2

          1 week ago

          With what track record? At any point he may revert to the pitcher he’s been with four full seasons since 2021. It’s not bad, but it’s certainly not #2-3.

          If a team is taking on that entire contract, there is a risk that has to be accounted for in the trade. You’re not getting A+ premium prospects and shedding the entire deal.

          Reply
      • Sports_Guy

        1 week ago

        Is $18m a year a lot for #2/3 starter? There is no doubt that Keller would land at least a 3yr/$60m deal if he were a free agent.

        2
        Reply
        • AI GM

          1 week ago

          Much more than 3 60

          3 80
          5 130

          Who knows could be more

          Reply
  12. alwaysgo4two

    1 week ago

    High demand for a dependable controlled arm. They’ll have to send a top prospect.

    5
    Reply
  13. LFGMets (Metsin7) #BannedAgain&Again&AgainFireStearns

    1 week ago

    We don’t need a 5th starter, we need an ace. Mitch Keller is a better Paul Blackburn, not impressed. I’m done with Stearn’s penny pinching fixer-upper types that rarely pan out. They need to stop prospect hugging and get to trading for a #1. The options in my opinion that should be available in which I would be comfortable with solidify our rotation with are Jacob Degrom, Shane Bieber, and to a lesser extent Nate Eovaldi. I don’t see Stearns making any big moves. And don’t even get me started on the bullpen, Chapman is a must have

    Reply
    • cspera77

      1 week ago

      Keller would be the 2nd best starter on your team NOT a number 5….try again

      7
      Reply
      • Mets Era Thumping Soto

        1 week ago

        Senga, Peterson, Manea, Holmes and then Keller

        3
        Reply
        • RichardJarzynka

          1 week ago

          Senga is the only Mets starting pitcher with a lower WHIP or FIP than Keller.

          2
          Reply
        • AI GM

          1 week ago

          So Mets fans have Keller in bullpen for playoffs lol

          1
          Reply
        • cspera77

          1 week ago

          Keller is MUCH better than Peterson, Manea or Holmes and it’s not even close

          Reply
        • rct

          1 week ago

          “Keller is MUCH better than Peterson, Manea or Holmes and it’s not even close”

          Utterly ridiculous assessment. Let’s focus on Keller for a second:

          2023 – 1st half – 3.31 ERA in 19 starts; 2nd half – 5.59 ERA in 13 starts
          2024 – 1st half – 3.46 ERA in 19 starts; 2nd half – 5.65 ERA in 12 starts
          2025 – 1st half – 3.64 ERA in 18 starts; 2nd half – ???

          Keller is a first half pitcher and an average starter (like #3 or #4 on a contender). He’s never finished a season with an ERA+ above 106 or a FIP below 3.80.

          Peterson – 2024 – 2.90 ERA, 133 ERA+, 3.67 FIP in 21 starts. 2025 – 3.18 ERA, 120 ERA+, 3.51 FIP in 17 starts. He’s better than Keller.

          Manaea is debatable on who is better. I would take him over Keller. Holmes, the jury is out on him as a long-term starter, but so far he’s put up a 2.99 ERA and 128 ERA+ in 17 starts. There’s a lot of uncertainty there but he’s pitched very well so far.

          So no. Keller is not “MUCH better” than any of them.

          4
          Reply
      • WashedUpOldTimer

        1 week ago

        I blame the variety of Pirates GMs over the eons who’ve basically given players away that allows fans of other teams to think that hey, we’ll send some low A guys in return
        Then again, maybe it’s just something about Mets and Yankees fans.

        2
        Reply
        • Mets Era Thumping Soto

          1 week ago

          You don’t think the Pirates would take Elian Peña in a heart beat for Keller? He’s not even in low A yet.

          Reply
        • RichardJarzynka

          1 week ago

          No.

          1
          Reply
        • Mets Era Thumping Soto

          1 week ago

          Then you just answered why they are always a bad team. Elian Pena has superstar written all over him and will be the highest ranked prospect out of all of them within two years.

          Reply
        • RichardJarzynka

          1 week ago

          He’s 6 0r 7 years away from MLB (that is, if he ever makes it) and he is currently hitting about .235 in the Dominican Summer League.

          If the Mets want to give him up, they can have Andrew Heaney in return.

          4
          Reply
        • Gwynning

          1 week ago

          Then you just answered why the Pirates won’t trade straight-up for Peña, METS. He’s not even in Low A yet… but you think he’s viable currency for a 2/3 SP? Gotta add some very good prospects if you’re trying to win the bidding for Keller, METS.

          2
          Reply
        • TheMan 3

          1 week ago

          did you not read the article, Mets?
          Cherington doesn’t want low level prospects, he wants major league ready players

          2
          Reply
        • Gwynning

          1 week ago

          Baty AND ________? for Mitch…

          1
          Reply
        • Mets Era Thumping Soto

          1 week ago

          He went 0 for 27 to start his career. What are his stats since including a 3 homer game? Hes 17 and is graded out extremely high by scouts. The Mets aren’t trading him but you all are foolish if you think the Pirates wouldn’t give up Keller for him.

          Reply
        • Mets Era Thumping Soto

          1 week ago

          He isn’t 7 years away from the Majors. When has it ever taking elite international signings ever 7 years to make the majors? Maybe 3

          Reply
        • Gwynning

          1 week ago

          Ohhhh, we’re all the fools… gotcha. Duly noted, METS.

          That reminds me… bring back the Downvote, Tim!

          1
          Reply
        • Mets Era Thumping Soto

          1 week ago

          Would the Pirates trade Keller for De Vries? There is literally only one year difference with almost the same exact pre signing grades of de Vries and Pena.

          Reply
        • WashedUpOldTimer

          1 week ago

          I guess you don’t know how many potential superstars have come into the Pirates system only to never be heard from again, or have come up and quickly flamed out

          1
          Reply
        • Gwynning

          1 week ago

          Leo and Peña are both teenage Shortstops… and that’s where that comparison stops. Are you seriously equating the two as having identical potential and elevating Peña to the current Top 3 on the MLB Prospects list? C’mon METS, stop being a homer. All due respect, but you’re way offline.

          Reply
        • Mets Era Thumping Soto

          1 week ago

          Are you serious Gwynning. Peña was the top international signing last year and de Vries the year before. Read their scouting reports. Pena will definitely jump the charts when he comes stateside as did de Vries.

          Reply
        • Gwynning

          1 week ago

          I’ve watched Peña play, and while he’s a talented kid METS, it’s just way too early to start comparing to established prospects… who are, in their own right, waaayyy too young themselves to have “big potential” and “highly-rated” attached to their name. The simple facts are we are talking about kids and nobody knows the future. But therein lies the prospect game… people- scouts, fans, GMs, POBOs- “try” to predict what said prospect will be, and nobody ever gets it right all the time. The best in the business whiff and miss ALL THE TIME… having a top-shelf prospect go wire-to-wire to bonafide MLBer is the extreme rarity. All that being established, there are inner tiers to prospect-dom… and your boy is too young to classify yet. Now, I could see him as a secondary piece in a trade- not necessarily a throw-in, but a viable piece. That, unfortunately, is his value for now. Cheers bub

          3
          Reply
        • cspera77

          1 week ago

          Benge

          Reply
        • cspera77

          1 week ago

          Keller would require either Benge, Williams or Batty as the headliner plus 1 or two more pieces

          2
          Reply
        • Sports_Guy

          1 week ago

          We have enough guys batting .225, no thanks

          1
          Reply
  14. WadeBoggsWildRide

    1 week ago

    Mets acquire mid rotation arm.

    Mid rotation guy pitches like top end starter.

    Rinse and repeat.

    5
    Reply
    • Acoss1331

      1 week ago

      That is an awesome problem to have lol

      4
      Reply
    • LFGMets (Metsin7) #BannedAgain&Again&AgainFireStearns

      1 week ago

      @WadeBoggsWildRide who has Stearns traded for that has actually succeeded as a starter? Paul Blackburn? He has been awful. You give that penny pincher too much credit

      Reply
      • WadeBoggsWildRide

        1 week ago

        He has signed a bunch of nobody’s to pitch the last few years to great success. I guess my comment was focused on his moves as a generality vs trades specifically.

        The strategy of signing 5 cheap low end or low-mid range starters on short term deals every year instead of committing to long term aces has worked pretty well.

        4
        Reply
  15. smrtbusnisman04a

    1 week ago

    Don’t look now but the Pirates have won 7 of their last 10.

    1
    Reply
    • WadeBoggsWildRide

      1 week ago

      World Series here they come!

      1
      Reply
      • Gwynning

        1 week ago

        I like how a smart businessman… can’t even spell it! Lol

        1
        Reply
        • Boston’s Alignment

          1 week ago

          “He was giving him the business!”
          Mark Gastineau

          3
          Reply
  16. Hammerin' Hank

    1 week ago

    Stroman makes $18.5 million and Taijuan makes $18. Keller is better than both of them right now, although he wasn’t this good last year. His salary is right in line with his ability, I would say.

    4
    Reply
    • AI GM

      1 week ago

      He was better laat year

      Reply
    • Buckner

      1 week ago

      I’m going to guess both teams are unhappy having decided to give those ridiculous contracts to Stroman and Walker.

      Walker is in the bullpen and not used, and Stroman is “a puzzle.” Thankfully for Stroman Yankees pitchers are dropping like flies.

      Keller appears to be better than these two. Yes. For now.
      It does not mean Keller has earned it. Or the three more years of commitment.

      1
      Reply
  17. sfjackcoke

    1 week ago

    Every market has its own price based on not only supply and demand but how a team’s farm aligns with a trading partner

    You can say MLb player is worth a grade 50 prospect but if the farm doesn’t have a 50 or the ask is for a 50 hitter and they only have a 55….

    $ helps balance this out as for the NYM $ comes with the multiplier of CBT tax. Not mentioned and not discusswd yet, Marte’s contract doesn’t have a NTC however he gets 5-10 rights at the 2025 season end.

    Yes PIT wants to get a hitter with the $ but also may run afoul of MLBPA if they move Keller w/o taking some $ back? Not sure

    Obviously NYM would need to send a bigger prospect haul + $ however maybe this deal presents an opportunity.

    As a true seller in a market where they have marketable arms and in general are open foe business on virtually their whole roste PIT might get to work early.

    3
    Reply
    • Buckner

      1 week ago

      Good points @sfjackcoke

      Reply
    • Boston’s Alignment

      1 week ago

      Marte is FA at season’s end. This concludes his 4 year contract with the Mets.
      Marte plus Vientos for Keller. Add 3 mid prospects.

      Reply
  18. Dutch Vander Linde

    1 week ago

    A pitcher with a losing record and a sub 4.00 ERA means it’s the team that sucks not the pitcher.If he wants to save his career, he better run out of there.

    1
    Reply
    • AI GM

      1 week ago

      Good teams don’t look at wins era so his career is just fine.

      1
      Reply
  19. RichardJarzynka

    1 week ago

    No Mets starting pitcher comes close to Mitch Keller’s 2.4 WAR.

    Peterson 1.8
    Senga 1.7
    Megill 1.5
    Canning 0.9
    Holmes 0.7

    Senga’s 3.20 FIP is the only one in the Mets rotation that is lower than Keller’s 3.24.

    4
    Reply
    • Mets Era Thumping Soto

      1 week ago

      FIP is the most irrelevant stat in baseball. Let’s grade players on 40% of their outcomes and ignore the rest. Hate to break it to you but fielding is a major part of the game and trying to ignore it is silly.

      2
      Reply
      • RichardJarzynka

        1 week ago

        Fielding is not a part of a pitcher’s individual performance, therefore, it is entirely irrelevant to an evaluation of a pitcher.

        2
        Reply
        • Mets Era Thumping Soto

          1 week ago

          What are you talking about? What kool aid did you drink? Ask Greg Maddux or Mariano Rivera if fielding was part of their performance? They intentionally got players to repeatedly to make soft contact on the handle or end of the bat to get quick outs. Getting someone to hit into a double play is vastly better then having to try to strike out to batters in a row. Do you think a pitcher with a six run lead should try to strike everyone out and avoid his defensive players?

          3
          Reply
        • RichardJarzynka

          1 week ago

          Maddux stated that he had no control over whether a batter hit the ball within the range of a fielder.

          1
          Reply
        • RichardJarzynka

          1 week ago

          Maddux had a career .281 Batting Average on Balls in Play. The league average during that time ranged between .278 and .299.

          His FIP, however, was 22% below league average.

          Which do you think is more indicative of the caliber of pitcher that he was?

          3
          Reply
        • Mets Era Thumping Soto

          1 week ago

          He didn’t walk anyone and what was his ops against compared to the league? He only struck out a little over 6 batters per 9 innings and definitely used his fielders. He induced the most double plays in baseball history.

          1
          Reply
        • RichardJarzynka

          1 week ago

          His .281 career BABIP shows that he was only slightly better than league average at “using his fielders.”

          1
          Reply
        • Mets Era Thumping Soto

          1 week ago

          So you are using a standard of batting average that no Sabre metric uses anymore to support your Sabre metric argument?

          Reply
        • Boston’s Alignment

          1 week ago

          It’s definitely not ENTIRELY irrelevant. Be reasonable, even slightly reasonable.

          1
          Reply
    • LFGMets (Metsin7) #BannedAgain&Again&AgainFireStearns

      1 week ago

      @RichardJarzynka WAR doesn’t mean anything for a pitcher. FIP is a useless stat. I use the eye test. Mitch Keller just isn’t that good. Hes a 5th starter

      Reply
      • WashedUpOldTimer

        1 week ago

        I’ve never thought Keller is a perennial Cy Young candidate but your rendering is just off base. He’s a mid rotation guy that would benefit any contending team down the stretch

        3
        Reply
        • LFGMets (Metsin7) #BannedAgain&Again&AgainFireStearns

          1 week ago

          @WashedUpOldTimer we don’t need another mid rotation guy. We already have plenty of those. We need an ace

          Reply
        • WashedUpOldTimer

          1 week ago

          He has periods where he’s certainly that, LFG. The problem is he’ll have 3-4 starts where he can’t stay out of dead red with his fastball or he doesn’t have the touch on his movement pitches. Have not seen one of those periods this year. The guy has been solid.
          I get what you’re saying, of course. Problem in this thread is that people want to undervalue the guy and send scraps in return

          Reply
        • WadeBoggsWildRide

          1 week ago

          Lugo is the closest you can get… Followed by Keller. For now at least.

          1
          Reply
      • RichardJarzynka

        1 week ago

        You’re eyes are deceiving you.

        Reply
    • rct

      1 week ago

      You’re being dazzled by first half Keller. Peterson and Senga are better than Keller, Senga by a wide margin.

      Keller’s stats:

      2023 – 1st half – 3.31 ERA in 19 starts; 2nd half – 5.59 ERA in 13 starts
      2024 – 1st half – 3.46 ERA in 19 starts; 2nd half – 5.65 ERA in 12 starts
      2025 – 1st half – 3.64 ERA in 18 starts; 2nd half – ???

      He does this every year. Great first half, blows up in the second half. To suggest that he’s better than any pitcher on the Mets based solely on WAR (quite flawed for pitchers) and FIP is crazy.

      3
      Reply
      • padam

        1 week ago

        But you’d still trade for him, yes? He can pitch, the talent is there, and perhaps his performance is in line with the team he plays for. I think he may be more focused on a team like the Mets that are in the running, this improving his performance.

        I’d move a prospect or two easily for him. No issue sending Mauricio and/or Acuna for him.

        1
        Reply
  20. Redwolves3

    1 week ago

    Mets are desperate for pitching. Pirates should take advantage & tell Mets they not only want Mauricio but also one of their top pitching prospects for Keller

    Reply
    • Big Poison

      1 week ago

      But they wouldn’t want either of those?

      Reply
  21. grandpaboy

    1 week ago

    Bucs fans—how about Moisés Ballesteros +
    (one of) Will Sanders/Connor Noland from the Cubs? That’s a future DH/backup C plus a back-end SP…I don’t know if you’d get much more without eating any of Keller’s $$$.

    Reply
    • TheMan 3

      1 week ago

      The Bucs won’t be eating any of Keller’s contract if he’s traded

      3
      Reply
    • RichardJarzynka

      1 week ago

      Keller’s contract would be a bargain for any team that acquires him. He’s on pace for 4.3 WAR and, over the past two seasons, average 2.8 WAR. On the free agent market, that’s worth about $23 Million per year. Keller is owed $18.3 million per year through the 2028 season.

      If the Cubs want Keller, any trade will have to start with Caissie or Alcantara.

      2
      Reply
    • WashedUpOldTimer

      1 week ago

      It’s well known that the Pirates cherish young outfielders. They have little in their system that is “on the cusp”. A future DH slash back up catcher? Really? And pitching is something they don’t need at present

      Reply
  22. BuccoFan1956

    1 week ago

    Not talking prospects. Bucs want an MLB bat to start. Keller is a solid pitcher with a sub 4 ERA. Controlled for 3 more years at under 20 million per year & you want them to take single A or double A PROSPECTS !!

    1
    Reply
    • WashedUpOldTimer

      1 week ago

      Disagree, Bucco. They’re not a hitter away from competing, not even two. And judging from the fact Cherington is listening to offers for guys like Hayes, Reynolds and even Cruz, I’m thinking they want guys on the cusp who also won’t break their bank

      1
      Reply
      • WadeBoggsWildRide

        1 week ago

        Love the name Bucco, bucko. Makes it way easier to reply in a condescending tone.

        Reply
  23. angt222

    1 week ago

    Curious what PIT would want in return? Tidwell, Mauricio & Colin Houck?

    Reply
    • Boston’s Alignment

      1 week ago

      Vientos Tidwell Blackburn and Houck. Pitt will still need innings.

      Reply
    • RichardJarzynka

      1 week ago

      MLB-ready hitting prospects that the Mets don’t have.

      2
      Reply
  24. sfjackcoke

    1 week ago

    You have spiked hair and live under a bridge right? Your assertion Keller is a 5th starter is not shared with anyone whose job involves MLB player evaluation.

    Keller is a mid rotation arm who can start a playoff game. and for a team that can setup its rotation, preferably Game 4. Mute is a beautiful feature

    3
    Reply
    • Big Poison

      1 week ago

      Agree somewhat. Keller is a mid rotation arm on most teams. On the Mets I could argue he’d be #1

      1
      Reply
  25. Big Poison

    1 week ago

    Absolute silly fandom from Mets fans on this thread. Williams and Gilbert might get it done. Might. Keller would be number 1/2 in the Mets rotation.

    Reply
    • padam

      1 week ago

      He’d be three or four. He’s not bumping Senga or Manea, and an argument can be made for Peterson as the three. Adding Keller and touching it off with Holmes would be nice. Not a staff that would scare me, but deep enough that one through five should be able to keep them in games while the offense does its thing.

      1
      Reply
  26. Big Poison

    1 week ago

    Mets fans don’t deserve Keller. They’re too homerishly stupid.

    2
    Reply
    • WashedUpOldTimer

      1 week ago

      It’s not even that, BP. It’s that fans of huge market teams are used to stepping on the little teams to get what they want, and on the cheap
      And we’ve had GMs here willing to acquiesce

      Reply
  27. AlOliver4HOF

    1 week ago

    The Red Sox match up best with the Pirates for a trade. They have a surplus of outfielders and need starting pitching. Keller wouldn’t just be for this year he would help the next couple years and could be true win-win for both teams.

    Reply
  28. joew

    1 week ago

    Not sure the Mets could pull it off especially the the Mets want the pirates to pay much of his salary

    Near ready MLB bats at OF,1b or 3b And a long far out pitcher..

    Off set salary’s by brining back Marte for the LoLs.

    Reply
  29. PiratesPundit51

    5 days ago

    The Mets really just aren’t a match for what the Cubs could offer for Keller. With the Pirates being in the position of not needing to trade Keller at all, they can squeeze out a pretty good package from a desperate team, better than what the Mets will be willing or able to offer.

    The Mets could totally be in play for Heaney, though. Dom Hamel could be a change-of-scenery type (in a similar vein to the Holderman trade). He could allow the Pirates to deal from their pitching depth to swing a bigger deal elsewhere.

    Realistically, the Cubs could headline a Keller trade with any of their top 5 (outside of Rojas, who is too far away at the moment) and stand a decent chance of getting something done. The Mets don’t have anything close to any of those in terms of near ready players.

    Reply
  30. Tomas7

    4 days ago

    Don’t part w/Baty or Mecurio, maybe Vientos with a boat load of cash and another player named later like Oakland used to do. No prospects, too much talent to part with.

    Reply

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