Mitch Keller: Everything you need to know

Keller didn't factor into the decision Saturday against the Brewers, allowing three runs on five hits and two walks while striking out six across five innings. Keller tossed 60 of his 93 pitches for strikes and ended just three outs away from recording a quality start -- a feat he's accomplished in four of his six outings in 2026. The six strikeouts were also a season-high mark for Keller, who delivered a strong outing considering the history he has against some of the Brewers' hitters. Keller has a 3.18 ERA across six outings and 34.0 innings this season, and he should make his next start over the upcoming weekend at home against the Reds.

Keller (2-1) notched the win Sunday against the Rays, allowing two runs on five hits and no walks in seven innings. He struck out five. It was perhaps a season-best performance by the right-hander, who recorded season-high figures in innings and strikeouts. Keller has done a fine job of providing length for the Pirates so far in 2026, tossing at least six innings in four of his five starts. He'll bring a strong 2.79 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 19:9 K:BB over his first 29 frames into his next outing, which is currently projected to come against the division-rival Brewers.

Keller (1-1) took the loss Monday against the Nationals, allowing five runs on six hits and four walks with three strikeouts across four innings. Keller had turned in three straight six-inning quality starts to begin the season, so Tuesday was his first hiccup of the 2026 campaign. The Nationals attacked Keller early and often in this one, as the first five batters of the game reached base to push across three runs. CJ Abrams then swatted a solo home run off Keller in the third frame. Keller generated just seven whiffs on 90 pitches and walked four batters for the second time in four starts. The right-hander now owns a 2.86 ERA and 14:9 K:BB across 22 innings. He's slated to face the Rays at home Sunday in his next start.