The Chicago Cubs are actively monitoring the starting pitching market and appear to be narrowing their focus as the trade deadline approaches. According to MLB insider Bob Nightengale, the Cubs are showing strong interest in Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander Mitch Keller. Nightengale reports that “the Pittsburgh Pirates have been engaged in serious trade talks for more than a week with the Chicago Cubs about starter Mitch Keller.” Keller is currently in the second year of a five-year, \$77 million contract that runs through 2028. His salary increases over the remaining years: \$15 million in 2025, \$16.5 million in 2026, \$18 million in 2027, and \$20 million in 2028.
Keller, who started for the Pirates on Friday night, received more than two runs of support in a game for the first time since May 2. After four consecutive starts in which he allowed three earned runs or fewer, his ERA has improved to 3.90 entering July. A move to the Cubs would bring Keller closer to his hometown of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where his family already travels to Chicago to see him pitch when the Pirates visit Wrigley Field. A trade would make those family visits much more frequent.
From Pittsburgh’s standpoint, however, dealing Keller within the division could be a tough decision. If the Pirates aim to compete in the near future, Keller would likely be a key part of that plan. His extended team control also makes him a valuable asset, meaning the Pirates would likely demand a significant return—something the Cubs may hesitate to offer. Still, with trade discussions already heating up, there’s a growing possibility that Keller could finish the season wearing a different uniform.
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