Brad Keller Attracts Interest as Versatile Free Agent Pitcher

Brad Keller is attracting interest from multiple MLB teams as both a starting and relief pitcher, according to Joel Sherman of The New York Post. The report highlights that while several teams are keen on Keller, the New York Yankees have not emerged as a serious suitor as of yet.

Keller had a breakout year with the Chicago Cubs, posting an impressive 2.07 ERA over 69 and two-thirds innings, primarily working out of the bullpen. By the end of the season, he had established himself as one of Craig Counsell's most trusted leverage arms, recording 25 holds and three saves while relinquishing just three leads throughout the year.

His performance in the second half was particularly notable, allowing only one run and striking out 35 batters in 27 and two-thirds innings. In the playoffs, he further showcased his skills, delivering five and two-thirds innings of one-run ball, which included two additional saves and a hold.

Although Keller's underlying metrics weren't as dominant, he maintained solid peripherals, striking out 27.2% of opponents and posting an 8% walk rate. His ground-ball rate was an impressive 56.5%, ranking as the tenth-highest among relievers with over 50 innings pitched.

A slight area of concern is Keller's 10.8% swinging strike rate, which falls below the league average of 11.5%. Keller’s performance has naturally drawn interest from teams looking for a reliable reliever, but some clubs are also considering him for a rotation spot.

He has a history as a starter, having spent the majority of his six seasons with the Kansas City Royals in that role, where he initially found success as a ground-ball specialist. However, his performance dipped significantly from 2021 to 2023, leading to thoracic outlet surgery before the 2024 season.

After a challenging period with limited success in MLB appearances for the White Sox and Red Sox, Keller signed a minor league contract with the Cubs last winter and rejuvenated his career in relief. Despite concerns about his surgery, there is optimism regarding his potential to return to starting, especially given his five-pitch mix and ability to handle left-handed hitters effectively.

Keller held lefties to a .223 average with a 26% strikeout rate over 123 plate appearances this past season. While maintaining his 97.2-mile-per-hour average fastball velocity over longer stints might be challenging, it’s reasonable to expect him to sit around 94 to 95 miles per hour.

MLB Trade Rumors predicts a three-year, $36 million contract for Keller, reflecting the possibility of him signing as a starter. This trend of pitchers transitioning back to starting roles after successful relief careers has been seen in recent seasons with players like Garrett Crochet and Seth Lugo.

The report emphasizes that while there are risks involved, a solid return on investment could be achieved with a three-year deal in the $12 to $14 million range annually for Keller.