Mitch Keller’s STRUGGLE Leaves Pittsburgh Pirates Fans Desperate for Answers
From Locked On Pirates - Daily Podcast On The Pittsburgh Pirates by Locked On Podcast Network, Gary Morgan
June 12, 2026 · 32 min · Episode 1258
About this episode
Gary Morgan discusses Mitch Keller's struggles and the implications for the Pittsburgh Pirates' rotation and lineup.
Pittsburgh Pirates face mounting questions as Mitch Keller’s inconsistency clouds their rotation. Is Keller simply regressing, or can he rediscover his form when the team needs it most? Gary Morgan breaks down the right-hander’s perplexing numbers—highlighting alarming issues with Keller’s pitch mix, rising walk rates, and a worrying inability to retire left-handed hitters. With Keller calling his own games and struggles mounting, adjustments behind the plate and on the mound may be imminent for the Pirates’ supposed innings-eater. Rising prospect Antoine Kelly receives a call-up as Pittsburgh scrambles for reliable bullpen arms, while Rafael Flores flashes promise at catcher despite defensive concerns. Gary Morgan discusses smart lineup tweaks to address the Pirates’ lefty problem and the emerging roles of Tyler Callahan and Marcello Zuna. The show closes with a heartfelt tribute to broadcasting legend John Sanders and a look ahead at the Pirates’ critical series against the Miami Marlins.
People in this episode
Host: Gary Morgan
Topics covered
- Mitch Keller's performance
- Pittsburgh Pirates rotation
- pitching struggles
- bullpen issues
- lineup adjustments
- prospect call-ups
- broadcasting tribute
Keywords
- Mitch Keller
- Pittsburgh Pirates
- pitch mix
- walk rates
- left-handed hitters
- Antoine Kelly
- bullpen
- lineup tweaks
- John Sanders
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Pittsburgh Pirates, Miami Marlins
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