The Pittsburgh Pirates have just made a bold move, but the question on everyone’s mind is: What’s next? After their first major transaction of the offseason—acquiring outfielder Jhostynxon Garcia and right-handed prospect Jesus Travieso from the Boston Red Sox—fans are buzzing about the team’s future. But here’s where it gets controversial: despite this trade, rumors persist that the Pirates might still deal right-hander Mitch Keller. Could they really part ways with another starter? And this is the part most people miss: even after trading Johan Oviedo, the Pirates are open to moving another pitcher—as long as they get a hitter who can make an immediate impact.
After seven straight losing seasons and the fewest runs scored in the majors, the Pirates are desperate to ignite their offense. Their offseason goal is clear: add one or two proven regulars and two to four depth pieces. Garcia, just 22 with minimal MLB experience, fits the latter category for now. The Pirates see him as a future regular but aren’t ready to hand him a starting role just yet. Meanwhile, they’re eyeing free agents like Jorge Polanco, Ryan O’Hearn, and Kazuma Okamoto, as well as trade targets like Brandon Lowe and Jeff McNeil. Essentially, every available hitter is on their radar.
But let’s talk about Keller. At 29, he’s a reliable mid-rotation starter with an average of 183 innings over the past three seasons. His $54.5 million contract over the next three years is reasonable, but trading him won’t be easy. Teams are hesitant to give up impactful hitters, and the free-agent market is flush with better starters. If the Pirates move Keller, it might take time—and they’d likely need to replace him with another starter. Is it worth the risk?
Garcia, on the other hand, is exactly the type of player the Pirates want: a young, athletic outfielder with an aggressive approach. One Red Sox official believes he could become a dangerous hitter once he refines his game. And if he develops, he could join 19-year-old shortstop Konnor Griffin as part of an exciting young core.
Then there’s Travieso, the 18-year-old pitcher acquired in the trade. Standing at just 5-foot-11 and 140 pounds, he’s a wildcard with a fastball topping out at 97-99 mph. Scouts are impressed by his ability to fill the zone with varied pitches, but like most teenage pitchers, he’s a high-risk, high-reward prospect.
For the Pirates, Garcia is the centerpiece of this deal. Nicknamed “The Password,” he’s their best hope to unlock an offense that’s been dormant for far too long. But the bigger question remains: Can these moves finally turn the Pirates’ fortunes around?
What do you think? Is trading Keller a smart move, or should the Pirates hold onto him? And is Garcia the key to their offensive revival? Let us know in the comments—this is one discussion you won’t want to miss!
