Pirates Recap: Mitch Keller Masterful in Final Spring Start

Mitch Keller ended spring training on a high note in the Pittsburgh Pirates’ 2-1 loss to the Boston Red Sox on Friday night in Fort Myers.

The right-hander was brilliant in a three-inning start, allowing just one baserunner — a second-inning base hit — with five strikeouts and 28 of his 48 pitches going for strikes.

His final tune-up of the spring capped of a strong showing in the Grapefruit League. Keller finished with a 2.40 ERA across five starts and held opposing batters to a .204 batting average.

Keller is entering the second year of a five-year extension signed during last year’s spring training. Last season, he finished 11-12 with a 4.25 ERA across 31 starts.

Keller will be joined by staff ace Paul Skenes along with left-handers Bailey Falter and Andrew Heaney in the starting rotation. The fifth and final spot is to be determined as right-hander Jared Jones is dealing with an elbow issue that could keep him sidelined once camp breaks.

Notable Pirates’ Performances

• Mitch Keller: 3.0 innings, one hit, no runs, no walks, five strikeouts
• Caleb Ferguson: 1.0 inning, no hits, no runs, one walk, one strikeout
• David Bednar: 1.0 inning, no hits, no runs, no walks, one strikeout
• Dennis Santana: 1.0 inning, no hits, no runs, no walks, no strikeouts
• Joey Bart: 2 for 4, one double
• Tommy Pham: 2 for 3, one walk, one stolen base

The Pirates (14-12) will play their final home game of spring training on Saturday afternoon agaisnt the Baltimore Orioles. First pitch: 1:05 ET.