The New York Mets reached out to the Pittsburgh Pirates about the availability of right-hander Mitch Keller, according to Noah Hiles of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
However, the chances of Keller being dealt before the July 31 trade deadline decreased after the Pirates went 6-0 on their last homestand, a source told Hiles.
The 29-year-old was reportedly on the trade block last offseason, which included talks about a deal that lasted throughout spring training.
The Pirates would be open to moving Keller because of his contract, according to Hiles. He's making $15 million in 2025 and is owed $54.5 million through the 2028 campaign after signing a five-year, $77-million extension in February 2024.
The Mets need rotation help with Kodai Senga, Sean Manaea, Tylor Megill, Griffin Canning, and Paul Blackburn sidelined.
Keller owns a 3.64 ERA with 1.19 WHIP and 84 strikeouts over 106 1/3 innings (18 starts) this season.
The Chicago Cubs are reportedly also very interested in acquiring the 2023 All-Star.
