Velocity decreases for Keller
Pitcher still had solid day vs. Orioles
SARASOTA, Fla. — Any analysis of how Mitch Keller pitched Wednesday should probably start with a disclaimer that it’s only spring training. It’s probably worth repeating a few times for emphasis, too.
At the same time, Keller also represents a huge part of the Pirates, a pitcher they recently extended for five years, $77 million and an All-Star who’s expected to start on opening day for a second consecutive season.
Yes, the fact that his velocity was down again during Pittsburgh’s 6-4 loss to the Orioles at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota should be be viewed within the context of spring training. However, it’s also kind of tough to ignore.
In his previous start, Keller’s four-seamer averaged 95.2 mph, matching its mark from 2023. Against Baltimore on Wednesday, Keller didn’t touch 95. He hit only 94 four times among his 55 pitches. The right-hander was consistently in the 91-93 mph range, though he did use his cutter, sweeper and sinker effectively.
There’s obviously nothing wrong with Keller continuing to diversify his pitch mix, especially considering what a weapon the cutter has become for him. Velocity dips also happen from time to time in the spring.
The hope will obviously be that this is nothing more than that.
As for the game …
The Pirates trailed, 3-0, after four innings but grabbed a 4-3 lead with a four-run fifth, one made possible by Baltimore’s charity. Joshua Palacios drew a bases-loaded walk for one run. Reliever Ryan Watson balked home another, and shortstop Gunnar Henderson’s error created a 3-3 tie.
Jake Lamb, who entered the game for Rowdy Tellez, stroked an RBI single to right field to give Pittsburgh the lead, continuing his solid spring.
The lead was short-lived, however. Aroldis Chapman took the ball in the fifth inning and allowed a leadoff single to third baseman Ramon Urias. After a double from Henderson, catcher Adley Rutschman singled home the tying run.
With Ryder Ryan working the eighth, Orioles third baseman Coby Mayo cracked a two-run double to put his team ahead for good.
On the mound
The Orioles snagged a 2-0 lead in the first inning, when Keller fell behind right fielder Anthony Santander, 2-0, and grooved a fastball low and inside to the lefty. Santander deposited over the right-field fence for a two-run blast.
Baltimore added another run in the third inning, when Keller allowed two singles and a walk to load the bases with nobody out. Liover Peguero made a slick play on a tough hop and turned a double play, a run scoring in the process.
At the plate
Peguero had the most productive evening of anyone, collecting two hits. In the thick of the second base competition, Peguero is now 5 for 7 over his past two games. If Peguero can continue on this track, he certainly has an opportunity to win an opening day job.
In the field
Whether it has been at second base or third, Jared Triolo is capable of making flashy defensive plays. He added another one in the second inning Wednesday, gobbling up a slow roller from center fielder Austin Hays for an out. It’s also probably a good thing that there are no challenges during spring training games.