Blue Jays trade deadline target: Mitch Keller

So far in July, he’s posted a 2.10 ERA with 20 strikeouts through 25 2/3 innings of work. It’s also worth noting that in 16 of Keller’s 21 starts this season, he has gone a minimum of six innings, which would be good for any bullpen that has seen its fair share of work this season

Contract Situation: 

Keller signed a 5-year, $77 million contract with the Pirates two winters ago, which is only going into the second year of that extension. On paper, it would seem weird to trade a player like that right away, but the Pirates are on pace to have one of the worst records in baseball this year, which could trigger a huge overhaul of the roster.

As of now, the organization is unsure what to do with the 29-year-old right-hander as they ponder the team’s future.  When Keller signed the extension with Pittsburgh, it showed his commitment to the team, but it’s not impossible that he is moved for the right price, whether as a standalone or as part of a trade package.

How does Keller help the Blue Jays?

It’s no secret the Blue Jays need starting pitching help. Having Eric Lauer emerge as a quality arm is a huge asset for them, but the team also need to look at 2026 and beyond.

As of now, Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer are free agents this winter, Kevin Gausman’s contract is up in 2026, and Jose Berrios can opt out of his contract should he choose to following the 2026 season. The Blue Jays do have arms such as Alek Manoah, who’s been recovering from Tommy John surgery, Bowden Francis, who has struggled mightily in 2025, and other arms such as Jake Bloss, Ricky Tiedemann and Trey Yesavage, who are still young and developing, that could be rotation fixtures next season and beyond.

Considering the future of the rotation in a state of flux, the team can add a staple to the rotation in Keller, who would only be 32 at the end of his current contract.