Should Philadelphia Phillies Pursue Blockbuster Trade for Pirates Ace?

The Philadelphia Phillies could use an extra starter at the MLB trade deadline. Could Pittsburgh Pirates ace Mitch Keller be the answer?

The Philadelphia Phillies may have another option when it comes to the starting pitching trade market.

Pittsburgh Pirates ace Mitch Keller is reportedly now being shopped according to the New York Post.

It's am important development considering just how thin the market is for starting pitcher at this season's Aug. 1 MLB trade deadline.

However, it appears unlikely that the Pirates will move Keller, an All-Star, at the deadline.

The Phillies are one of few teams who have the needed prospect capital to pull off such a heist. Keller, who is under contract through the 2025 MLB season, owns a 4.01 ERA through 128.0 innings pitched this year.

Last season, Keller turned in a career-best 3.91 ERA over 159.0 innings pitched and he is in position to improve upon that this season. At 27 years old, Keller is in his prime, under team control and if given the opportunity to pitch for a true contender could reach even new heights.

By adding Keller Philadelphia would be able to answer part of their rotation question next season, especially with Aaron Nola's status as a free agent this winter and his future with the club in question.

Any conversation for Keller's services from the Pirates likely starts with Mick Abel, Griff McGarry, Johan Rojas and potentially even the injured Andrew Painter.

However, Keller represents the exact type of player the Phillies hope any of the above pitching prospects turn out to be. Keller is a known quantity and could help them this season and for another two postseason runs after that.

It is an option, albeit a blockbuster one, worth exploring at this season's trade deadline.

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