As Major League Baseball’s offseason heats up, the Philadelphia Phillies find themselves at a critical juncture after securing star slugger Kyle Schwarber and extending manager Rob Thompson. However, the team has substantial decisions ahead, particularly regarding whether to commit to Ranger Suarez financially.
The trade market is expected to be bustling, and one intriguing proposal suggests the Phillies might consider moving All-Star third baseman Alec Bohm in exchange for All-Star starter Mitch Keller from the Pittsburgh Pirates. Recent discussions highlight that this potential trade could help the Phillies fill a crucial gap in their rotation, should they fail to keep Suarez.
Mitch Keller, under a five-year contract worth $77 million with about $56 million remaining over the next three years, has established himself as a reliable starting pitcher, making 29 or more starts in four consecutive seasons. In 2025, Keller recorded a 4.19 ERA over 176.1 innings of work, making him a viable option as a No. 3 or No. 4 starter for the Phillies.
The Pirates recently traded starter Johan Oviedo, and sources indicate that they are actively seeking to bolster their offensive lineup. Trading for Alec Bohm would provide a significant boost to the Pirates’ depth, as he is under arbitration for another year before hitting free agency in 2027. Bohm’s career batting average stands at .279, with a total of 70 home runs over six seasons. This past year, he recorded a .287 average along with 11 home runs and 59 RBIs in 120 games.
As the MLB Winter Meetings draw to a close, the urgency is palpable for both the Phillies and Pirates. The fate of Ranger Suarez remains uncertain, adding complexity to the Phillies’ plans. If the team cannot retain him, they could pivot towards securing Keller to strengthen their rotation.
The upcoming months promise to keep fans and analysts engaged as the Phillies navigate these pivotal decisions amid an active trade market.
