Pittsburgh Pirates: Mitch Keller, Michael Chavis Shine vs Padres

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Apr 26, 2022; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Mitch Keller (23) throws a pitch against the Milwaukee Brewers during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Philip G. Pavely-USA TODAY Sports /

Has something finally clicked for Mitch Keller?

People still having questions about Mitch Keller is fair. Wanting to see more before buying in on Keller and getting back on the bandwagon is understandable. That said, for the first time in quite awhile there is optimism around Keller.

Following his strong start on Sunday Keller lowered his FIP on the season to 3.81. Keller has walked just 6.7% of batters faced this season while striking out 20.2%. Maybe just maybe Keller is figuring something out and turning a corner.

After allowing 1 run on 5 hits, no walks and 5 strikeouts in 6 innings pitched on Sunday, Keller is now the lone Pirate starting pitcher to last at least 6 innings in a start this season. In Keller’s last three starts he has allowed 6 runs on 4 hits, 2 walks, 2 home runs, and 13 strikeouts in 16 innings pitched. All of this comes out to an ERA of 2.86 in these three starts.

Keller threw the four highest velocity pitches of the game on Sunday. He generated 7 swings-and-misses and continued to look confident on the mound. Keller’s stuff is MLB ready and it appears his confident and demeanor may finally be there as well.

If Keller continues to pitch the way he has in his past three starts then there will be reason to begin to get back on the bandwagon. Reason to begin to believe in Keller again. For now, though, there is still plenty of optimism.

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