Pirates Update: Keller's Injury, Valdez's Recovery, and Coaching Changes
Mitch Keller's season concluded just before the trade deadline when the Pittsburgh Pirates placed him on the 60-day injured list due to a teres major strain in his right shoulder. Reports indicate that Keller suffered a Grade 3 strain, which involved the muscle detaching from the bone, but he will not require surgery and is expected to begin throwing again later this month.
Keller's injury did not occur from a single pitch, suggesting he had been pitching through discomfort. His performance this season included a 5.29 ERA over 22 starts, with a career-low average fastball speed. He remains under contract for two more years at $38 million, and if he recovers well, he will join a rotation that includes younger pitchers.
Meanwhile, outfielder Esmerlyn Valdez, who ended the season on the injured list due to a hamstring strain, reports that he is healthy and preparing to play in the Dominican Winter League. Valdez had a promising rookie season, hitting 17 home runs in 287 plate appearances, but he needs to improve his contact rate to secure a regular spot in the lineup. Additionally, the Pirates have hired Sean Buchanan from the Astros as a new coach, although his specific role has yet to be defined.
