Division rival backs off, but new team enters Mitch Keller trade talks with Pirates

It seemed for a while like the division rival Chicago Cubs were the prime suitor for Pittsburgh Pirates hurler Mitch Keller, and fans started dreaming about which prospects might come back from the familiar foe, but now that tune may have changed.

A new report from Pirates insider Noah Hiles claims that the Cubs are now considering Keller as a backup option rather than their primary starting pitching target. While that may put a damper on the desire to plunder a chief rival's prospect treasures, it doesn't mean that Keller isn't an in-demand name at the deadline.

According to Hiles, the New York Mets are now considered "perhaps" the front-runners for Keller's services, but their crosstown rivals, the New York Yankees, have also entered the chat.

Pirates fans shouldn't be concerned about Mitch Keller's trade value after the Cubs reportedly back off

While Keller doesn't have the name recognition or pedigree of some of the more well-known arms on the market, such as Sandy Alcantara or Zac Gallen, don't let that fool you.

With a 3.48 ERA, 3.33 FIP, and a workhorse-like 119 innings pitched by the All-Star break, Keller is one of the most productive pitchers on the block this season. That will drum up plenty of interest, especially if contenders view him and his contract as a superior value to what will be available on the free agent market after the season.

Keller has three years and approximately $55.7 million left on his deal beyond this season. For reference, that compares favorably to deals this past offseason for starting pitchers like Yusei Kikuchi (three years, $63 million), Luis Severino (three years, $67 million), and Sean Manaea (three years, $75 million).

Whichever team acquires Keller will be doing so with the assumption that he will be a part of their rotation in 2026 and beyond. Compared to last year's crop of free agents, it's clear that his salary over the next three seasons comes at a slight discount relative to his production and that of comparable pitchers.

With the Mets and Yankees hopping in, expect Keller's market to only heat up as the trade deadline nears. Other clubs like the Dodgers, Red Sox, and Astros also need rotation help, while an untimely injury could force even more contenders into the fray.

Keller won't be a fit for everyone, but even if the Cubs drop out, his market will be robust, and the Pirates will certainly find themselves with a nice haul in exchange for his services.