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2 clusters · 3 sources · 14 days · First seen 24 days ago · Last updated 11 days ago

Pittsburgh Pirates pitching rotation challenges

Overview

The Pittsburgh Pirates are managing significant instability in their starting pitching rotation following a season-ending shoulder injury to Mitch Keller. Keller, who had been a reliable starter from 2022 through 2025, experienced a performance decline during the 2026 season, posting a 6.95 ERA after his eighth start.

In the wake of Keller’s injury, Carmen Mlodzinski was tasked with filling the rotation void but has struggled, allowing 13 earned runs over 8.1 innings. This has increased pressure on the team’s bullpen. To address these deficits, the organization is evaluating several options. Potential candidates for the rotation include Lake Bachar, who has maintained a 3.80 ERA, and Khristian Curtis, a 24-year-old prospect who has pitched eight scoreless innings this season and is considered a top candidate for the expanded September roster.

Entities

Pittsburgh Pirates · Mitch Keller · Khristian Curtis · Lake Bachar · Carmen Mlodzinski

Timeline

11 days ago

[SPORTS] 3 sources
Pittsburgh Pirates face roster decisions amid Mitch Keller injury
The Pittsburgh Pirates face uncertainty regarding Mitch Keller's future following injury and declining stats, while prospect Khristian Curtis emerges as a candidate for the team's expanded September roster.
24 days ago

[SPORTS] 2 sources
Pittsburgh Pirates evaluate rotation options amid Mlodzinski struggles
The Pittsburgh Pirates are evaluating rotation changes as Carmen Mlodzinski struggles in his role following Mitch Keller's injury, with Lake Bachar emerging as a potential alternative.

Sources

lastwordonbaseball.com · si.com · triblive.com