Report: Cubs, Pirates in serious trade talks involving Keller

The Chicago Cubs are looking for ways to improve their starting staff and have their eyes on a pitcher from a division rival.

The Cubs and Pittsburgh Pirates have been involved in serious trade discussions for over a week about right-hander Mitch Keller, reports USA Today's Bob Nightengale.

Pittsburgh is reportedly open to trading anyone except Paul Skenes or Andrew McCutchen, making the 29-year-old Keller an attractive trade chip.

The one-time All-Star owns a 3.90 ERA and 3.33 FIP in 17 starts. Keller's addition could bolster a Cubs rotation that ranks 23rd in starter ERA and is without Justin Steele and Javier Assad due to injuries.

Keller is owed about $55 million over the next three seasons.