Padres Could Target Pirates’ Keller to Bolster Rotation in NL West Chase
The San Diego Padres are breathing down the Dodgers’ necks, sitting just one game back in the NL West race. Despite Los Angeles strengthening their World Series-winning roster this offseason, the Padres have kept pace and might be looking to add reinforcements before the trade deadline.
Pitching help could be on San Diego’s radar, even with a staff that already ranks among MLB’s top five in team ERA. One intriguing target? Pirates starter Mitch Keller, who could give the Padres’ rotation even more firepower for their playoff push.
Newsweek’s Drew VonScio suggested Keller as a potential fit for San Diego, noting the right-hander’s underlying metrics look better than his surface numbers.
“Pitching is always an area teams are looking to improve, and the Padres are no exception,” VonScio wrote. “One way they could do it is by acquiring starting pitcher Mitch Keller from the Pittsburgh Pirates. As of Saturday, Keller has a 4.40 ERA with a 5.14 xERA. However, his FIP comes in at just 3.69, which indicates poor defense has caused Keller’s ERA to shoot up.”
That 3.69 FIP (Fielding Independent Pitching) suggests Keller’s been a victim of Pittsburgh’s shaky defense. The Padres’ superior glove work could help him thrive in San Diego. They’ve also shown a knack for maximizing pitcher performance compared to other organizations.
What makes Keller particularly valuable is his contract situation. He’d arrive with 3½ years of team control remaining, giving the Padres a rotation piece through 2027. That long-term value means he won’t come cheap.
VonScio suggests outfielder Gavin Sheets could be part of a potential package: “The conversation could start with 29-year-old Gavin Sheets as the Pirates are desperate for any sort of offensive boost.”
Sheets has been solid for San Diego, hitting near .300, but he’s only on a one-year deal. That makes him a logical trade chip in a deal that could strengthen the Padres’ rotation for years to come.
The timing feels right for a move like this. The Padres are within striking distance of the Dodgers and adding Keller could be the boost they need to overtake their rivals. It’s the kind of aggressive move that signals they’re serious about winning now while also planning for the future.
