Seeking Stability in the Rotation
The San Francisco Giants are gearing up for a crucial offseason, with a primary focus on bolstering their starting pitching depth. After a turbulent 2025 season that saw them cycle through 15 different starters, the Giants are in dire need of reliable arms to solidify their rotation. ESPN’s David Schoenfield has suggested a potential trade target: Mitch Keller, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ durable and consistent veteran.
A Familiar Face in a New Uniform
Mitch Keller has been a mainstay in the Pittsburgh Pirates’ rotation for the past seven years, bringing a career ERA of 4.51 and a one-time All-Star appearance to the table. Keller’s strength lies in his durability and consistency. He has managed to make at least 29 starts in four consecutive seasons, averaging 183 innings and 2.1 WAR over the past three seasons. While he may not be a front-line ace, Keller’s track record of dependability makes him an attractive option for the Giants, who are keen on building a more stable and reliable pitching staff.
Addressing the Rotation Needs
The Giants’ 2025 season was marred by inconsistency in their starting rotation, with only three pitchers—Tyler Beede, Logan Webb, and Alex Wood—making more than 10 starts. Internal candidates like Hayden Birdsong and Carson Whisenhunt show promise, but the team is looking for a seasoned veteran to provide stability. Keller, who is signed for the next three years with an average annual value of about $18.5 million, fits the bill perfectly. His contract is reasonable, and his consistent performance over the years makes him a low-risk, high-reward addition.
A Season of Rebound
The Giants finished the 2025 season with a record of 81-81, narrowly missing the postseason. This mediocre performance underscores the need for a strong starting rotation to propel the team back into playoff contention. Adding a vet like Keller would not only provide immediate stability but also offer a calming influence in the clubhouse. His presence could mentor younger pitchers and help the team develop a more cohesive and reliable pitching staff.
The Broader Picture
Beyond the immediate needs, the Giants are also looking at the long-term health of the organization. Investing in a seasoned starter like Keller aligns with their strategy of building a balanced and sustainable roster. While the immediate focus is on the 2026 season, the Giants are also mindful of maintaining a competitive edge in the coming years. Keller’s contract and performance history make him an ideal candidate to bridge the gap between the team’s young prospects and their veteran leadership.
Moving Forward
With the offseason just around the corner, the Giants are poised to make some significant moves to address their pitching woes. Trading for Mitch Keller would be a prudent and strategic decision that could pay dividends both in the short and long term. The Giants’ front office will need to weigh the trade-offs and balance their resources, but the potential benefits of adding Keller’s reliability and experience to the rotation are hard to ignore. As the team prepares to make a strong push in 2026, the prospects of a more stable and formidable starting lineup are looking increasingly promising.
