MLB Network’s Jon Morosi reiterated on The PM Team Tuesday that the Texas Rangers are interested in Andrew McCutchen, but the Pirates, at this point, are not interested in moving him and Cutch has said he wants to stay.
He added that could changed if McCutchen wants to be traded to a contender, to try to win a championship.
But it was a different name that Morosi floating with Poni and Mueller that got attention, shopping Mitch Keller.
Pointing out that at some point the Pirates will have to go “swing for swing” against the Cincinnati Reds should see what kind of hitters they can get.
“Let’s put Keller out there and see what kind of bats we can get back,” said Morosi of the right-handed pitcher.
Morosi says that the Baltimore Orioles have a deep and rich minor league system.
“I’m not trading Keller unless I get someone who is a controllable bat, almost as good as a prospect as a Henry Davis type, that’s what I’d be looking for to make this move,” said Morosi.
He does say if you asked General Manager Ben Cherington if they were looking to trade Keller the answer would be no, but he would make the most impact on the trade market for the Pirates.
It is also highly possible that the Pirates extend Keller, who has shown to be their best pitcher after a few years of struggles.
The 27-year-old is 8-3 this season with a 3.45 ERA over 16 starts. He has 113 strike outs and 26 walks over 99 innings pitched.
The Pirates have two years more control before Keller becomes an unrestricted free agent.