Brad Keller
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2019Old Geezers202020850123.1114714991195.18
2020Old Geezers3227411180161.11588966121244.96
2021Old Geezers23241421670192.21146962151233.22
2022Old Geezers10100062056.15330364694.79
2023Old Geezers00000000.0000000.00
2024Old Geezers00000000.0000000.00
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 24 2024The Red Sox optioned Keller to Triple-A Worcester on Monday, Chris Henrique of Beyond the Monster reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller has allowed 10 runs over 16.2 innings as a low-leverage reliever for the Red Sox. He's being replaced by a fresh arm after he threw 31 pitches and allowed three runs over one inning in Sunday's 7-4 win over the Reds.
May 26 2024Keller signed a one-year contract with the Red Sox on Sunday, Mac Cerullo of the Boston Herald reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After clearing waivers upon being designated for assignment by the White Sox last week, Keller elected free agency and quickly caught on with a new club on a big-league deal. Keller is expected to be available out of the bullpen for Sunday's game against the Brewers and should serve as a long-relief option for the duration of his stay with Boston. Prior to being cut by the White Sox, Keller made five appearances (two starts) and pitched to a 4.86 ERA and 1.38 WHIP across 16.2 innings.
May 22 2024Keller cleared waivers Wednesday and elected to become a free agent, Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller was DFA'd by the White Sox on Sunday after posting a 4.86 ERA and 1.38 WHIP across 16.2 innings, and he'll now try his luck in the open market rather than accepting an outright assignment to Triple-A Charlotte. The 28-year-old righty has not found much consistent success throughout his past few seasons in the majors, but he should have no problem securing at least a minor-league deal with another team in need of rotation depth.
May 19 2024Keller was designated for assignment by the White Sox on Sunday, James Fegan of SoxMachine.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller was tagged with the loss Saturday versus the Yankees, giving up six runs (five earned) on seven hits, including four homers, and he'll now be placed on waivers. The right-hander owns a 4.86 ERA over 16.2 innings in five appearances, including two starts, with Chicago in 2024, so it's plausible that another organization could claim him. The transaction opens a spot on the Chicago's 40-man roster, while Keller's spot on the major-league roster will likely be filled by Dominic Leone (back), who's slated to be activated from the 15-day injured list in the near future. It's unclear who will replace Keller in the starting rotation, though Michael Soroka projects as a logical replacement for the time being.
May 18 2024Keller (0-2) took the loss Saturday as the White Sox were downed 6-1 by the Yankees, coughing up six runs (five earned) on seven hits -- including four home runs -- and a walk over four-plus innings. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander served up a pair of homers to Juan Soto in the first and fifth innings, with Jose Trevino and Giancarlo Stanton taking Keller deep in between. Troubles keeping the ball in the park are nothing new for him, as he got tagged for 35 home runs over 273.1 innings in 2021-22 while with the Royals. Keller's spot in the White Sox rotation is my no means secure, but if he takes his next scheduled turn at home next week against the Orioles, he'll carry a 4.86 ERA and 1.38 WHIP to the mound.
May 14 2024Keller will replace Michael Soroka in the White Sox's starting rotation, Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller will replace the 0-5 Michael Soroka in the ChiSox starting quintet, putting him between Mike Clevinger and Chris Flexen at the back end of Chicago's rotation. Keller went 4.2 innings and threw 102 pitches in a start on May 3 and has logged at least three innings in both appearances since, so he shouldn't be under much of a pitch count, if any. The 28-year-old has cruised to a 2.84 ERA and a 1.18 WHIP in 12.2 innings this season and is lined up to make a start Saturday against the Yankees.
May 8 2024Keller allowed one earned run on five hits and no walks with no strikeouts across three innings Tuesday against the Rays. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller pitched as a traditional starter May 1, but he was shifted back to the bullpen after Mike Clevinger was promoted to the majors. Keller pitched effectively in his return to relief and followed Michael Soroka into the game. However, due to his lack of strikeouts and relatively low win potential, Keller isn't likely to generate much fantasy intrigue.
May 3 2024Keller (0-1) allowed three runs on five hits and two walks over 4.2 innings Friday, striking out five and taking a loss against St. Louis. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller coughed up a pair of runs in the first inning but kept the Cardinals in check until he was charged with another run in the fifth. He forced 12 swinging strikes but needed 102 pitches to get through 4.2 frames. Keller registered a 4.50 ERA across three starts with Triple-A Charlotte before his promotion to the MLB level and it's unclear what role the White Sox plan on using him in moving forward.
May 1 2024Keller is scheduled to start Friday's game against the Cardinals at Busch Stadium. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller was called up from Triple-A Charlotte on Sunday and proceeded to make his White Sox debut as a reliever Monday, when he tossed 1.2 scoreless innings against the Twins. The White Sox haven't indicated that Keller will be joining the rotation on a permanent basis, as the team might have just wanted to build in an extra day of rest for Erick Fedde, who will take the hill Saturday after tossing 8.1 innings and 108 pitches in his most recent outing last Sunday versus the Rays. Keller will be taking the mound Friday on three days' rest, so he could face a light workload, even though he had worked five-plus innings in each of his three starts with Charlotte prior to his call-up.
Apr 28 2024The White Sox selected Keller's contract from Triple-A Charlotte on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller was built up slowly in spring training while he completed his recovery from offseason thoracic outlet syndrome surgery, but he was deemed ready to go for the start of the Triple-A season. He made three starts for Charlotte prior to his call-up, working at least five innings each time out while pitching to a 4.50 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and 14:6 K:BB in 16 innings. Keller is expected to give the White Sox a multi-inning option out of the bullpen for the time being, but he could eventually emerge as a candidate for the big-league rotation if back-end starter Chris Flexen fails to perform well enough to hold down that role on a more permanent basis.
Apr 13 2024Keller is a candidate to be promoted from Triple-A Charlotte to join the White Sox's rotation Tuesday against the Royals, Scott Merkin of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This spot in the rotation will eventually belong to Mike Clevinger, but in the meantime, Keller looks like the favorite to start Tuesday. Keller gave up two runs on six hits and one walk while striking out five over five innings in his start Thursday for Triple-A Charlotte.
Mar 16 2024Keller underwent thoracic outlet syndrome surgery over the offseason, Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller dealt with thoracic outlet syndrome symptoms on a couple occasions last season while with the Royals and evidently at some point opted for surgery. He inked a minor-league deal with the White Sox last week and "threw the ball really well" during a recent live batting practice session, per manager Pedro Grifol. Keller is expected to begin the season at Triple-A Charlotte but could become an option for Chicago's rotation before long.
Mar 8 2024Keller (shoulder)signed a minor-league contract with the White Sox on Friday that includes an invitation to spring training. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller's 2023 season ended in September when the Royals put him on the injured list with symptoms associated with thoracic outlet syndrome. It's uncertain what his current health situation is, but the White Sox clearly felt comfortable enough with it to give the righty a non-roster invite. Keller has been an effective innings-eater in the past and is still just 28, but he holds a 5.14 ERA since the start of the 2021 campaign. The White Sox will likely send him to the minors initially, but given their dearth of rotation options, he could wind up making starts for them sooner rather than later.
Sep 19 2023Keller was placed on the 15-day injured list Wednesday due to symptoms associated with thoracic outlet syndrome. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller dealt with symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome earlier this season while on the injured list with a shoulder impingement, and those symptoms apparently resurfaced since being reinstated from the injured list Sept. 9. The right-hander will finish 2023 having pitched in just 11 games, and he had a 4.76 ERA, 1.94 WHIP and 31:45 K:BB over 45.1 innings. He's scheduled to hit free agency during the offseason, but the injury will cloud his outlook for 2024.
Sep 9 2023Keller (shoulder) was reinstated off the 60-day injured list Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller recorded a 4.36 ERA in nine starts before suffering a shoulder injury in mid-May, though his combination of a 15.4 percent strikeout rate and a 19.9 percent walk rate arguably deserved far worse. He's worked as a reliever while on his rehab assignment, posting a 6.10 ERA and 1.65 WHIP in 10.1 innings, and figures to step into a low-leverage relief role over the final few weeks given that he isn't stretched out to start.
Aug 16 2023Kansas City transferred Keller (shoulder) from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day IL on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The transaction doesn't affect the recovery timeline for Keller, who has been sidelined since mid-May because of right shoulder impingement syndrome. He recently begin a minor-league rehab stint in the rookie-level Arizona Complex League and could return to the Royals sometime in September.
Aug 14 2023Keller (shoulder) will begin a rehab assignment Monday with Kansas City's affiliate in the Arizona League. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller had a chance to kick off an official rehab assignment last week, and he did not have to wait much longer to begin one. Keller's last rehab assignment was paused midway through, so expect the Royals to try their best to avoid a similar outcome.
Aug 7 2023Keller (shoulder) could begin a rehab assignment this week, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller had a July rehab assignment cut short after experiencing soreness in his shoulder, but he has been throwing in the bullpen, and if all continues to go well he could join one of Kansas City's affiliates before the week comes to a close.
Jul 28 2023Keller's will receive further testing after his right shoulder discomfort returned, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller returned from his rehab assignment after his 30 days were up Thursday, but he wasn't activated from the IL due to a setback in his recovery. The results of Keller's test will determine how much longer he stays on the shelf, but the fact Keller was unable to keep pitching isn't a good sign. The 28-year-old righty put up a 4.36 ERA and 1.87 WHIP through 43.1 innings before getting injured in May.
Jul 27 2023Keller (shoulder) was returned from his rehab assignment Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller's 30 days on assignment were up, so the Royals will soon have to decide what to do with the right-hander. He appeared in nine games for Triple-A Omaha, covering nine innings with a 15.00 ERA, 3.56 WHIP and 5:21 K:BB while working as a reliever for a majority of the assignment. Given those numbers, it wouldn't be shocking to see him pitch out of the bullpen if he remains on the big-league roster once he's activated from the injured list.
Jul 18 2023Keller (shoulder) retired just one batter and allowed six earned runs on four hits and three walks in his latest rehab appearance Sunday with Triple-A Omaha. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller has now made six appearances for Omaha, but he may not be any closer to being activated from the 15-day injured list than when he first started the assignment June 28. He's been roughed up in each of his last three outings, recording five outs in total during that span while surrendering 13 runs (11 earned) on seven hits and eight walks. Though Keller had been a member of the Kansas City rotation prior to landing on the IL on May 19 with right shoulder impingement syndrome, he may be ticketed for the bullpen once he's reinstated. He's worked in relief in four of his six rehab appearances, including each of the last three.
Jul 6 2023Keller (shoulder) worked two innings in his rehab start Wednesday with Triple-A Omaha, striking out three while allowing one run on two hits and two walks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Royals have held Keller to a three-day rest schedule since he opened his rehab assignment June 28, with the right-hander having now worked exactly two innings in consecutive appearances after recording just one out in his first outing. Given Keller's usage thus far during the rehab assignment, it's not entirely clear if the Royals are building him back up for a starting role, though that still seems to be a likely outcome due to the lack of other impact rotation arms in the majors and high minors. Even if Keller is ready to return from the 15-day injured list shortly after the All-Star break and reclaims a spot in the Kansas City rotation, he won't make for a particularly enticing fantasy option after compiling a 3-4 record and pitching to a 4.36 ERA and 1.87 WHIP over 43.1 innings prior to being shelved with the shoulder issue.
Jun 27 2023Keller (shoulder) will begin a rehab assignment Wednesday with Triple-A Omaha, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller might need multiple outings on the farm given that he's been sidelined since May 19 because of right shoulder impingement syndrome. The 27-year-old had pitched to a 4.36 ERA, 1.87 WHIP and 31:40 K:BB in 43.1 innings prior to the IL stint.
Jun 2 2023Keller (shoulder) threw a live BP session Friday, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller went on the injured list May 19 and resumed mound work a week later. He may need a couple more bullpen or batting practice sessions as he recovers from right shoulder impingement syndrome. It has yet to be determined if he'll require a rehab assignment.
May 26 2023Keller (shoulder) is scheduled to throw a bullpen session Saturday, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It will be Keller's first mound workout since he went on the injured list May 19, retroactive to May 16, due to a diagnosis of right shoulder impingement syndrome. There is currently no timetable for his return to the Royals' rotation, but he does now seem to be headed in a positive direction following a brief shutdown period.
May 19 2023Kansas City placed Keller on the 15-day injured list Friday, retroactive to May 16, with right shoulder impingement syndrome. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller issued a whopping eight walks over just 3.2 innings in his last turn through the Royals' starting rotation Monday against the Padres. He's at 40 walks through 43.1 total innings this year. There is no timetable yet for the 27-year-old right-hander's return.
May 15 2023Keller (3-4) took the loss Monday, allowing three runs on three hits and eight walks over 3.2 innings against the Padres. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller nearly walked as many batters as he retired Monday. The free passes have been a major problem for Keller, as he now leads MLB with 40 walks on the season. Amazingly Keller's ERA is 4.36 despite all the walks. However his FIP is 5.39, a career high, suggesting his luck will run out soon if he doesn't locate the zone.
May 11 2023Keller (3-3) got the win Wednesday against the White Sox, allowing one run on three hits and four walks while striking out four over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller was given an early four-run cushion and was able to coast through his outing without much cause for concern. His lone blemish came in the second inning after a leadoff walk and two singles plated the only run of the game for the Sox. Keller continued to show struggles with his command as he walked at least four batters for the sixth time in eight starts, but he's generated a bunch of weak contact and has allowed just three home runs so far this season. The 27-year-old will take a 4.31 ERA, 1.76 WHIP and 29:32 K:BB over 39.2 innings into his next projected start against the Padres.
May 5 2023Keller (2-3) allowed seven runs (six earned) on 11 hits and four walks over 4.1 innings Friday. He struck out one and took a loss against Oakland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Athletics jumped on Keller early in the contest; he gave up a run in the first inning before serving up back-to-back homers to Brent Rooker and Ramon Laureano in the third. Keller would later be charged with three more runs in the ugly outing. His season ERA jumped to 4.67 and he's recorded more walks (28) than strikeouts (25) through 34.2 frames. Keller is projected to take on the White Sox at home next week.
Apr 30 2023Keller didn't factor into the decision in Saturday's 3-2 win over the Twins, allowing one run on six hits and five walks over 5.1 innings. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander also uncorked two wild pitches and exited the game after getting only 49 of his 92 pitches over the plate, but Minnesota's hitters let Keller off the hook for all the traffic he put on the basepaths. That's been the story of his season so far, however -- the 27-year-old sports a 3.56 ERA and has given up two runs or less in four of his six starts thanks in large part to serving up only one homer in 30.1 innings, but his 24:24 K:BB and 4.78 FIP indicate that major regression could be coming. Keller will hope his luck holds in his next outing, likely to come next weekend at home against the A's.
Apr 2 2023Keller (0-1) took the loss Sunday against the Twins, allowing two runs on five hits and four walks over 4.2 innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller threw only 50 of his 88 pitches for strikes as he struggled with his command, though he was able to hold Minnesota to just two runs. The 27-year-old had a 3.7 BB/9 last season, and the four walks Sunday aren't a good indication he'll be much better in that regard during 2023. The right-hander is tentatively slated to next take the mound Friday in San Francisco.
Mar 25 2023Keller allowed five hits and walked one while striking out nine over five scoreless innings in Friday's Cactus League win over the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports Keller will pitch during the Royals' first regular-season series against the Twins, so Friday was likely his last spring appearance. Keller posted a 4.95 ERA and 1.40 WHIP over 20 innings across six starts in Cactus League play. He's posted an ERA north of 5.00 over the last two seasons, but he'll get a chance in the rotation again after finishing out 2022 in the bullpen.
Feb 23 2023Keller worked on adjusting his curveball during the offseason, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller is competing for a rotation spot this spring. He's needed to make some improvements after posting ERAs of 5.39 and 5.09 over the last two seasons. He ended 2022 in a relief role, and the competition from veterans and prospects alike makes a return to a starting role challenging. Keller hasn't often used a curveball before, but adding one to his repertoire could give him a new look to test hitters as he tries to produce a bounce-back campaign.
Jan 13 2023Keller signed a one-year, $5.775 million contract with the Royals on Friday to avoid arbitration, Robert Murray of FanSided.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller is coming off back-to-back dreadful seasons, even getting demoted to the bullpen at one point in 2022. The Royals will hope he can bounce back in his walk year and perhaps boost his value enough that they can flip him for a prospect at the trade deadline.
Sep 25 2022Keller (6-14) took the loss Saturday versus the Mariners, allowing a run on four hits and two walks over 1.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller got a double play to escape a bases-loaded jam in the eighth inning, but the Mariners posted three straight one-out hits in the ninth to scrape together the go-ahead run. The Royals couldn't bail Keller out, sending him to his first loss as a reliever in 11 appearances. He's pitched to a 6.46 ERA, 2.09 WHIP and 15:10 K:BB while adding a save and a hold in 15.1 innings out of the bullpen, but he's unlikely to see enough high-leverage chances to make an impact in fantasy.
Sep 22 2022Keller struck out two without allowing a baserunner in a scoreless ninth inning to earn the save Thursday against the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller entered the game with a three-run lead and didn't allow a ball out of the infield to record his first career save. Scott Barlow was likely unavailable after pitching both Tuesday and Wednesday, which gave Keller the spare opportunity. Since shifting to the bullpen Aug. 17, Keller has a disastrous 6.43 ERA with a 15:8 K:BB across 14 frames.
Aug 17 2022Manager Mike Matheny said Wednesday that Keller will move to the bullpen, Joel Goldberg of Bally Sports Kansas City reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller has served exclusively as a starter in the majors over the last four seasons but has struggled since the All-Star break in 2022. Over his five starts to begin the second half, he's posted an 8.76 ERA and 2.07 WHIP in 24.2 innings. He had lined up to start Thursday's road matchup against the Rays, and the Royals haven't announced who will take his place in the rotation. However, Keller will attempt to sort things out as a relief option.
Aug 14 2022Keller (6-13) took the loss against the Dodgers on Saturday, allowing eight runs on nine hits and three walks while striking out three batters over three innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Mookie Betts led off the game by tagging Keller for a homer, and that proved to be an omen of things to come. The right-hander gave up four more runs in the frame and served up an additional long ball in each of the second and third innings before mercifully being replaced. By the time he departed, Keller had given up eight runs -- the second time in his past three starts that he's surrendered that amount. He's lost four of his past five outings, posting an 8.76 ERA and 2.07 WHIP across 24.2 innings during that stretch.
Aug 7 2022Keller (6-12) allowed one run on four hits and three walks over six innings Sunday, striking out four and earning a win over Boston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller didn't face much of a threat through five shutout frames before Rafael Devers tagged him with a solo shot in the sixth. It was his first win since July 11 after allowing 16 runs (15 earned) over his previous three starts. The 27-year-old righty lowered his season ERA to 4.45 with an 80:44 K:BB through 119.1 frames. Keller is lined up for a tough matchup with the Dodgers at home next week.
Aug 2 2022Keller (5-12) allowed eight runs on 13 hits an a walk with three strikeouts in 5.2 innings, taking the loss Tuesday versus the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller threw 70 of 94 pitches for strikes, but he didn't have enough stuff to deceive the White Sox's hitters. By just about any metric, this was the right-hander's worst start of the year, and also his third straight loss. His ERA ballooned from 4.18 to 4.63, and he's added a 1.38 WHIP and 76:41 K:BB across 113.1 innings in 20 starts this year. Keller will look to get back on track in a projected home start versus the Red Sox this weekend.
Aug 1 2022Keller's next scheduled start will come Tuesday against the White Sox, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller was lined up to start Monday night, but the Royals decided to go with Daniel Lynch instead and push Keller back a day.
Jul 28 2022Keller (5-11) took the loss Wednesday as the Royals were downed 4-0 by the Angels, giving up three runs on six hits and three walks over six-plus innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The game was scoreless until the fifth inning, when Los Angeles cashed two runs, and Keller stuck around until the top of the seventh when he got the hook after serving up a leadoff triple to Brandon Marsh. The right-hander tossed 56 of 90 pitches for strikes as he issued at least three walks for the third time in his last four outings. Keller still came away with his 10th quality start of the season, and he sports a 4.18 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 73:40 K:BB through 107.2 innings.
Jul 23 2022Keller (5-10) gave up five runs (four earned) on four hits and five walks while striking out one over four innings to take the loss in 7-3 defeat to the Rays on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a bizarre night for Keller, who was bothered by liquid draining from his nose. Beginning in the fourth inning, he pitched with a thick roll of gauze hanging from his left nostril and struggled with his control. Keller issued two free passes in the frame before Yandy Diaz made Keller pay for his lack of control by hitting a bases-clearing three-RBI double. The 26-year-old right-hander carries an undesirable 68:37 K:BB into his next expected start against the Angels next week.
Jul 18 2022The Royals reinstated Keller (personal) from the restricted list Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller was one of 10 Royals players who will rejoin the 26-man active roster after being ineligible to play during the four-game weekend series in Toronto due his vaccination status. He had been in line to start a game against the Blue Jays, but his move to the restricted list prompted Kansas City to call up Angel Zerpa from Double-A Northwest Arkansas to make a spot start Thursday. The 26-year-old right-hander closed the Royals' first-half schedule with a 5-9 record, 3.96 ERA, 1.27 WHIP and 67:32 K:BB across 97.2 innings over his 17 starts.
Jul 14 2022The Royals placed Keller (personal) on the restricted list Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller is one of 10 Royals on the 26-man active roster who won't be eligible for the four-game series in Toronto due to his vaccination status. He'll be formally reinstated from the restricted list for the Royals' first game coming out of the All-Star break July 22 against Tampa Bay. Left-hander Angel Zerpa was called up from Double-A Northwest Arkansas as a replacement pitcher, and he could be an option to start one of the final two games of the series in Toronto if he isn't used out of the bullpen the next two days.
Jul 13 2022Keller is unable to travel with the Royals to Canada for the four-game series against the Blue Jays due to his vaccination status, so he'll be placed on the restricted list Thursday ahead of the series opener, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller lined up to make one final start before the All-Star break this weekend, but he won't be able to join the team in Toronto. The 27-year-old finished the first half with a 3.96 ERA, 1.27 WHIP and 67:32 K:BB across 97.2 innings, and he should take the mound in one of Kansas City's first couple games out of the break.
Jul 11 2022Keller (5-9) allowed one run on three hits and a walk over seven innings in Game 1 of Monday's doubleheader. He struck out eight and earned a win over the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller dominated through five shutout frames before Riley Greene scored on a wild pitch in the sixth. He's now 4-1 with an impressive 2.15 ERA over his last five starts. The 26-year-old righty lowered his season ERA to 4.15 with a 67:32 K:BB through 97.2 frames. Keller is lined up to take the mound in Toronto this weekend.
Jul 6 2022Keller (4-9) earned the win over Houston on Wednesday, pitching 5.2 innings and allowing four runs on five hits and three walks while striking out three batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller struggled a bit with his control in the contest -- he threw only 60 of 105 pitches for strikes and tied a season high with three walks -- but he was able to take advantage of an early outburst by the Royals' offense to collect the win. The right-hander limited Houston to five hits, though three of those went for extra bases, including a sixth-inning solo homer by Aledmys Diaz that spelled the end of Keller's outing. The 26-year-old hurler has been inconsistent throughout the campaign, but he's won three of his past four starts after starting the season with a 1-8 mark through his first 11 outings.
Jul 1 2022Keller (3-9) allowed five hits and two walk over six scoreless innings Friday, striking out five and earning a win over the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller sprinkled singles and walks throughout his six innings of work and never faced much of a threat from Detroit's lineup. He hasn't allowed a run in two of his last three starts but he's registered a 4.75 ERA since the start of June. On the year, Keller is sporting a 4.24 ERA with a 56:28 K:BB through 15 starts. The 26-year-old is lined up to start in Houston next week.
Jun 26 2022Keller (2-9) took the loss to the Athletics on Saturday, allowing five runs on eight hits while striking out four and walking two across 3.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller struggled to keep the Athletics off the board Saturday, allowing five runs, four of which were earned. It was a stark difference from Keller's previous outing, also against Oakland, when he allowed no runs on only one hit. The righty was inefficient Saturday, throwing 55 of 93 pitches for strikes over 3.2 innings. The outing raised his ERA to 4.56.
Jun 19 2022Keller (2-8) earned a seven-inning win Saturday against the Athletics, allowing no runs on one hit while striking out six and walking three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller was lights out Saturday, allowing only one hit across seven frames. He threw 57 of 97 pitches for strikes and picked up a season-high six strikeouts in the game. It was the righty's second win of the year and his first since May 3, which was also a shutout. Keller will take a 4.30 ERA into his next outing.
Jun 12 2022Keller (1-8) took the loss Sunday against Baltimore, allowing five runs on seven hits and a walk while striking out three in 1.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller allowed a two-out solo homer to Anthony Santander in the first and back-to-back homers to Ryan Mountcastle and Rougned Odor to start the second. Keller was removed later that inning after allowing a two-out two-run single. Over his last seven starts, the 26-year-old is 0-6 with a 7.23 ERA and eight home runs allowed in 37.1 innings. His next start will likely be next weekend in Oakland.
Jun 7 2022Keller (1-7) got the loss Tuesday after he pitched six innings, allowing three runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out four against the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller gave up two runs on a Matt Chapman double in the top of the second and then a third run in the seventh inning after he allowed two batters to reach base to open the seventh frame before exiting, one of which later came around to score. He logged his first quality start since May 16 and sixth overall in 11 outings. Keller now owns a 4.19 ERA and 1.26 WHIP with 37 strikeouts over 66.2 innings this season. He tentatively lines up to toe the rubber again Sunday versus the Orioles.
Jun 1 2022Keller (1-6) took the loss Wednesday versus the Guardians. He allowed four runs on six hits and three walks with one strikeout in six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller allowed a run in each of the third through sixth innings, while the Royals' offense was limited to just seven singles and a pair of walks in the contest. With four or more runs allowed in four of his last five starts, Keller's hot start to the season is becoming an increasingly distant memory. He's now at a 4.15 ERA, 1.24 WHIP and 33:18 K:BB across 60.2 innings in 10 starts. The 26-year-old right-hander is projected to make his next start at home versus the Blue Jays next week.
May 28 2022Keller (1-5) took the loss Friday, surrendering six runs on 11 hits and three walks over four innings as the Royals fell 10-7 to the Twins. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Facing Minnesota for a second straight start, Keller was tagged for four runs in the first inning alone, including a two-run blast by Jorge Polanco. He exited the contest after throwing 85 pitches, including 55 strikes. Keller will take a 3.95 ERA, 1.21 WHIP and 32:15 K:BB over 54.2 innings into his next outing.
May 21 2022Keller (1-4) allowed four runs on five hits and three walks over seven innings to take the loss to the Twins on Saturday. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Free passes came back to haunt Keller in the third and sixth innings. Even after this step backward, Keller still has a 3.20 ERA and 1.03 WHIP this season, an improvement driven in large part by a reduction in walk rate to this point. Keller lacks swing-and-miss dominance and the team context is a negative, but he keeps the ball on the ground and is firmly in the streaming territory for fantasy baseball.
May 16 2022Keller allowed three runs on eight hits over seven innings in Monday's loss to the White Sox. He struck out three and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller gave up a run in the third on Andrew Vaughn's sacrifice fly but most of the damage against him came from Yasmani Grandal's two-run shot in the fourth. The 26-year-old was saved from taking the loss when the Royals tied the game during the eighth. Keller has given up nine runs (eight earned) over his last two outings but he still owns a 2.89 ERA through 43.2 innings. He's lined up to face the Twins at home this weekend.
May 10 2022Keller (1-3) took the loss after giving up six runs (five earned) over 5.2 innings in a 6-4 defeat Tuesday in Texas. He allowed nine hits and a walk while striking out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After retiring the first two batters on groundouts, Keller gave up a solo homer to Corey Seager and three consecutive singles in the three-run first. Seager tagged him for another solo shot in the third and the Rangers manufactured runs in the fourth and sixth. It was arguably his least effective start of the season with the two home runs doubling his season total. Despite the poor showing, the 25-year-old has an excellent 2.70 ERA and 0.98 WHIP through six starts. His next start will likely be early next week against the White Sox.
May 3 2022Keller (1-2) picked up the victory, allowing four hits and three walks while striking out two in 6.1 scoreless innings in a 7-1 win Tuesday over St. Louis. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller only allowed two baserunners in an inning once en route to his first win of the season. The 27-year-old has pitched six or more innings while allowing two or fewer runs in four of his five starts. He is tied for fourth with 31 innings, compiling a 1.74 ERA and 0.84 WHIP over those frames. However, with only 5.5 strikeouts per nine innings, there is reason to believe that he will experience some regression as he works more innings. His next start will likely be early next week in Texas.
Apr 22 2022Keller (0-2) was handed the loss during Friday's 4-1 loss at the hands of the Mariners, allowing four runs (three earned) on six hits and two walks with four strikeouts in 4.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller pitched solid the first time through the order but fell apart in the fourth, surrendering four runs on four hits and an error which proved to be the crushing blow. The outing was the first non-quality start for the 26-year-old who still possesses an impressive 2.55 ERA through 17.2 innings and three starts on the season. He's slated to take the hill next on Thursday against the White Sox.
Apr 15 2022Keller (0-1) took the loss, throwing seven innings with five strikeouts and allowing two runs on three hits and two walks in a 2-1 loss Friday against Detroit. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller allowed only one single in the first six innings and needed just 74 pitches to complete those frames. With two outs in the seventh, Spencer Torkelson uncorked a two-run homer to put Detroit ahead 2-1. Despite going winless, the 26-year-old has been excellent in his first two starts, allowing only eight baserunners in 13 innings. His next start is scheduled for Thursday against Minnesota.
Apr 10 2022Keller didn't factor into the decision in Saturday's 1-0 extra-inning win over the Guardians, scattering two hits and a walk over six scoreless innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cleveland didn't get a runner past first base against the right-hander, but Kansas City batters weren't having any more luck against Zach Plesac, resulting in a no-decision for Keller. He tossed 46 of 69 pitches for strikes, and he'll look for more support in his next scheduled start, Thursday at home against the Tigers.
Mar 22 2022Keller agreed Tuesday with the Royals on a one-year, $4.825 million deal, Kiley McDaniel of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The agreement allows Keller to avoid arbitration in his second year of the process. The righty will get a raise of just shy of $1.5 million despite a 2021 season which saw him struggle to a 5.39 ERA. He finished the campaign on the 60-day injured list due to a lat strain, but he's scheduled to make his Cactus League debut Wednesday against the Rockies, according to Josh Vernier of 610 Sports Kansas City.
Mar 14 2022Keller (lat) threw a bullpen session Monday at the Royals' big-league camp, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Since the lockout ended last week and players reported to camp, Royals manager Mike Matheny hasn't said that Keller will be subject to any restrictions at the start of the spring training. Keller's ability to complete a side session seemingly verifies that he's healthy again after a right lat strain kept him out for the final five weeks of the 2021 season. Before getting hurt, Keller had disappointed with a 5.39 ERA and 1.66 WHIP across 133.2 innings, but a big uptick in his strikeout rate from 2020 (from 16.3 percent to 19.6 percent) offers hope that he'll show improvement in his ratios during the upcoming season.
Sep 20 2021The Royals transferred Keller (lat) from the 10-day injured list to the 60-day IL on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller had already been ruled out for the season after he was shut down in late August with a right lat strain, so the move to the 60-day IL won't affect his recovery timeline. Instead, the transaction opens up a spot on the 40-man roster for Brady Singer, who was reinstated from the COVID-19 IL ahead of his scheduled start Monday in the first game of a doubleheader with Cleveland.
Sep 17 2021Manager Mike Matheny announced Friday that Keller (lat) will be shut down and won't return this season, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller landed on the injured list in late August with a lat strain, and while he has progressed in recent weeks, the club has now determined that there simply isn't sufficient time for him to return this season. The right-hander concludes the campaign with a 5.39 ERA, 1.66 WHIP and 120:64 K:BB across 133.2 innings.
Aug 31 2021Keller said Tuesday that his shoulder is pain free and he is awaiting the results of an MRI from Monday, Lynn Worthy of The Kansas City Star reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander was placed on the 10-day injured list with a right lat strain Friday, but Tuesday's news suggests he could make his return to the Royals' starting rotation soon. It's uncertain whether he'll need any rehab starts before coming back.
Aug 27 2021Keller was placed on the 10-day injured list with a right lat strain Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller was scratched from Thursday's start against the Mariners, and he'll miss at least one more turn through the rotation while he's on the injured list. However, the Royals haven't yet announced whether the right-hander will miss more than the minimum of 10 days.
Aug 26 2021Keller left Thursday's start against the Mariners with an apparent arm injury, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller surrendered a two-run home run to Kyle Seager during the fifth inning and was seen grabbing his right triceps after the pitch. He left the game without facing another batter, though there has been no official diagnosis to this point. Prior to his exit, Keller allowed two earned runs on five hits and four walks while striking out three across 4.1 innings.
Aug 20 2021Keller (8-12) allowed two runs (one earned) on four hits and a walk while striking out eight in six innings to earn the win over the Cubs on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller had been charged with losses in each of his last three starts, but he had more success Friday. The Royals fell behind early since the right-hander gave up runs in the second and third innings, but he got more run support from the team's offense starting in the fourth inning. Across four starts in August, Keller has recorded a 4.79 ERA and 1.55 WHIP in 20.2 innings. He tentatively lines up to make his next start on the road against Seattle on Thursday.
Aug 14 2021Keller (7-12) allowed three earned runs on seven hits and two walks with eight strikeouts through 6.2 innings, taking the loss in Saturday's 9-4 defeat to the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller needed 112 pitches to gut his way through 6.2 innings Saturday night, but he kept the ball in the ballpark for the first time since July 21 and picked up a quality start. With that being said, his outing could easily have been a lot worse. Keller loaded the bases in the fifth with one out, but emerged having given up just one run. After walking five batters in his last start (which also came against St. Louis), it was good to see the 26-year-old issue just two free passes to the Cardinals this time around. His eight strikeouts are the second most he's recorded this season. He figures to pitch next against the Cubs on Friday.
Aug 7 2021Keller (7-11) allowed five earned runs on seven hits and five walks while striking out five across five innings, taking the loss to the Cardinals on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller continued his struggles walking batters, with his BB/9 rising to 4.4. He surrendered a home run to Nolan Arenado in the fifth inning. The 25-year-old has a career-worst 5.79 ERA and a 1.71 WHIP in 116.2 innings. In addition, he has a mediocre 1.8 K/BB. He will get another chance to start against the Cardinals next weekend.
Aug 4 2021Keller (lower back) is slated to start Saturday's game against the Cardinals, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: During his most recent start last weekend versus the Blue Jays, Keller gave up three runs over three innings before being pulled due to lower-back tightness. His early exit looks to have been precautionary, as he came out of his between-starts bullpen session without issue. Keller will carry a 7-10 record, 5.64 ERA and 1.68 WHIP into Saturday's outing.
Aug 1 2021Keller was removed after three innings during his start Sunday against the Blue Jays due to lower-back tightness. He was charged with three runs on seven hits and no walks while striking out three before departing. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller left with the Blue Jays up 3-0, so he'll be on the hook for his 10th loss of the season if the Royals aren't able to overcome the deficit. Kansas City is describing Keller's removal from the contest as precautionary, but he'll still need to throw a bullpen session in the next two or three days without any discomfort in order to avoid a trip to the injured list. Keller tentatively lines up to make his next start during next weekend's series in St. Louis.
Jul 27 2021Keller allowed one earned run on four hits and two walks while striking out four across seven innings Tuesday against the White Sox. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller worked very efficiently, needing only 90 pitches to record his 21 outs. The only blemish to his effort was a solo home run that he surrendered to Gavin Sheets in the fourth inning. After delivering poor results for much of the first half of the season, Keller has allowed only seven earned runs across his last 27.2 innings -- spanning four starts. Even with that strong stretch, Keller has a 5.55 ERA with 93 strikeouts across 108.2 frames.
Jul 22 2021Keller (7-9) picked up the win Wednesday, allowing three runs on six hits and two walks over 6.2 innings in a 6-3 victory over the Brewers. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander collected his first win since June 4 while delivering his third straight quality start and sixth of the season. Keller had a rough first half but seems to have turned a corner in July, posting a 2.61 ERA, 1.11 WHIP and 22:8 K:BB through 20.2 innings during those last three outings.
Jul 9 2021Keller allowed a run on four hits and four walks while striking out nine over 7.2 innings in a no-decision versus Cleveland on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was Keller's best start of the year despite allowing four or more free passes for the sixth time in his last 10 outings. Despite the strong work on the mound, the right-hander exited with the game tied at 1-1, assuring he'd go a seventh straight start without a win. The 25-year-old now has a 5.97 ERA, 1.76 WHIP and 83:48 K:BB across 95 innings. He'll look to take some positive momentum into the second half of the season, although he'll likely need to trim his 4.5 BB/9 rate to find more success.
Jul 4 2021Keller (6-9) allowed two runs on five hits and two walks over 6.1 innings Sunday, striking out seven and taking a loss against Minnesota. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Despite the loss, it was the first time in Keller's last six starts that he allowed fewer than four runs, lowering his season ERA to 6.39. He allowed an RBI single to Trevor Larnach in the third inning and served up a solo homer to Max Kepler in the sixth. Since the start of June, Keller has yielded 30 earned runs in 36.2 innings (7.36 ERA) alongside a 28:19 K:BB. He's lined up to take the mound in Cleveland next week.
Jun 30 2021Keller allowed six runs on 10 hits and five walks and failed to strike out a batter over five innings Tuesday against the Red Sox. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller allowed a season-high 10 hits and five walks and managed to not strike out a batter for the first time since the Royals' season-opener. The Red Sox got to him for runs in the first, third, fourth and sixth. He was actually in line to pick up a win upon exiting in the sixth, but the Red Sox wound up re-taking the lead that inning. Keller has given up the most hits (110) and third-most walks (42) while posting the highest ERA (6.67) and WHIP (1.88) among all qualified pitchers in baseball. The 25-year-old next lines up for a meeting against Minnesota over the weekend.
Jun 24 2021Keller (6-8) allowed four earned runs on nine hits and four walks while striking out three across five innings to take the loss Thursday against the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller was hit hard throughout the outing, as he allowed multiple baserunners in all but one of his five innings of work. He also surrendered two home runs, the first by Aaron Judge in the opening frame followed up by Luke Voit two innings later. Keller is in the midst of a disastrous run on the mound, as he's allowed 21 earned runs across his last 20.1 frames -- spanning four starts. That's increased his ERA on to 6.39 on the campaign.
Jun 19 2021Keller (6-7) took the loss Saturday, coughing up five runs on five hits and three walks over five innings as the Royals fell 7-1 to the Red Sox. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander held Boston's bats mostly in check until the fifth inning, when a two-run homer by J.D. Martinez capped a four-run rally that put the game out of reach for Kansas City. Keller lasted at least five innings for the ninth straight start, but he's been far from effective lately, getting tagged for at least five runs in each of his last three trips to the mound. He'll take a 6.34 ERA and 64:34 K:BB through 71 innings into his next outing.
Jun 14 2021Keller (6-6) was tagged with the loss Monday against the Tigers after allowing seven runs (six earned) on eight hits and a walk while fanning five across five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller has given up at least five runs in back-to-back starts for the first time this season, and he seems to be trending in the wrong direction of late after posting a strong 3.86 ERA across six starts during May. The right-hander owns a 7.75 ERA in three outings this month, and he'll attempt to bounce back in his next start, scheduled for this weekend at home against the Red Sox.
Jun 10 2021Keller (6-5) took the loss versus the Angels on Wednesday. He allowed five runs on eight hits and four walks while striking out four in 5.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller kept the ball in the yard Wednesday, but the 12 baserunners he allowed represented a season high. The right-hander has been inconsistent throughout the year with a 5.75 ERA, 1.75 WHIP and 59:33 K:BB across 61 innings. While he's upped his K/9 to 8.1, his BB/9 of 4.3 and HR/9 of 1.2 are also elevated compared to a 2.8 BB/9 and 0.3 HR/9 from last year. He also carries a .363 BABIP and 4.61 FIP, so some of Keller's struggles can be pinned on bad luck. He'll line up for a start versus Detroit next week.
Jun 5 2021Keller (6-4) allowed two runs on seven hits while striking out five over five innings as he took the win over the Twins on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller was handed a commanding lead Friday after the Royals tallied nine runs on six hits, two errors and a walk in the first inning. The 25-year-old did surrender a solo home run to Jorge Polanco in the fifth but struck out at least five for the third consecutive start and didn't walk a batter for the first time all year. While Keller has been much better over the last month, he still owns a 5.50 ERA. The right-hander is expected to take the mound next week against the Angels in Los Angeles.
May 30 2021Keller (5-4) allowed three runs on five hits and four walks with six strikeouts in five innings in a win over Minnesota on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander continues to put too many batters on base, but Kansas City's offense outscored his struggles Sunday. Keller has won three of his last four starts. He's posted a 5.68 ERA, 1.74 WHIP and 46:25 K:BB across 50.2 innings in 11 starts this season. The 25-year-old projects for a rematch with Minnesota in next weekend's series.
May 26 2021Keller (4-4) picked up the win Tuesday, allowing one run on four hits and four walks over seven innings in a 2-1 victory over the Rays. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander put together his longest start of the year, and only his third quality start in 10 trips to the mound. Keller appears to have turned a corner after his rough beginning to the campaign, and over his last six outings he has a 3.48 ERA, 1.43 WHIP and 31:12 K:BB through 33.2 innings.
May 19 2021Keller allowed three earned runs on eight hits and one walk while striking out four across 5.1 innings Wednesday against the Brewers. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller was knocked around in the outing, as four of the hit eight hits he surrendered went for extra bases. Even so, he avoided a disastrous start by getting timely outs and limiting Milwaukee to only three earned runs. Through nine starts this season, Keller has completed six innings only twice and at least five innings on only five occasions. The end result has been a 6.52 ERA across 38.2 innings. Keller will look to get on track in his next outing, currently projected to come Tuesday at Tampa Bay.
May 14 2021Keller (3-4) picked up the win in the first game of Friday's doubleheader against the White Sox, allowing two runs on five hits and three walks over five innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander tossed 60 of 97 pitches for strikes while setting a new season high in K's. Keller has started to turn things around after a rough start to the year, posting a 3.80 ERA and 20:7 K:BB over his last four outings and 21.1 innings, although he also gave up five unearned runs during that stretch.
May 7 2021Keller (2-4) allowed three runs on five hits and a walk over six innings Friday, striking out six and taking a loss against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller cruised through four scoreless innings before serving up a fifth-inning solo shot to Zach Collins. The White Sox then knocked three hits off him in the sixth to extend the lead to 3-0. He still managed to lower his season ERA from 8.06 to 7.31 with a 22:13 K:BB. Keller is projected to take the mound in Detroit next week.
May 2 2021Keller (2-3) was tagged with the loss Sunday against the Twins after giving up seven runs (two earned) on six hits and a walk while fanning three across 4.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller began his outing hitting Luis Arraez and while he looked composed through the first two innings, the wheels came off in the third -- he gave up seven runs and was never able to recover. The right-hander has struggled due to a lack of consistency thus far and has given up at least four runs in four of his last six appearances. That translates to an 8.06 ERA across 22.1 innings. Keller will try to bounce back in his next start, scheduled for next week at home against the White Sox.
Apr 26 2021Keller (2-2) secured the win after allowing two runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out four across six innings Monday against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller dealt with some traffic on the basepaths, but after giving up one run in the third inning and one in the fourth, he would exit with a 3-2 lead. The 25-year-old has struggled to find consistency through his first five starts, surrendering four or more runs in three of those outings. Keller will have a chance to string two strong starts together Sunday in Minnesota.
Apr 20 2021Keller (1-2) was charged with the loss against Tampa Bay on Tuesday, pitching 1.2 innings and allowing five runs on three hits and three walks while striking out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller made it through the first inning with one run charged to his tally, but he fell apart in the second. The Rays notched only one hit in the frame but worked three walks off the right-hander to chase him from the game. Keller was largely responsible for his own demise as he threw only 29 of 54 pitches for strikes and uncorked a wild pitch to boot. This was the 25-year-old's second major implosion of the campaign, leading to an ugly 12.00 overall ERA. He'll try to turn things around Monday when he takes on the Tigers in Detroit.
Apr 14 2021Keller (1-1) earned the win Wednesday versus the Angels. He allowed one run on four hits and a walk and struck out five over 5.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller needed 94 pitches (62 strikes) to get through his outing. The only run against him came on a sixth-inning Jared Walsh double to plate Mike Trout. The 25-year-old Keller took a good step forward after allowing 10 runs across his first two starts. He still carries a 9.58 ERA, 2.42 WHIP and 8:6 K:BB through 10.1 innings. Keller will look to keep making progress in his next start, scheduled for Monday versus the Rays.
Apr 9 2021Keller (0-1) allowed four earned runs on six hits and three walks across 3.1 innings while striking out three to take the loss against the White Sox on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller's struggles continued from Opening Day and he's allowed 10 runs in 4.2 innings over two starts. In addition, his command isn't there right now, as he's walked five batters during that stretch. The 25-year-old got shelled Thursday, surrendering home runs to Yermin Mercedes and Yoan Moncada in the first inning. Keller will try to get back on track in his next start against the Angels on Wednesday.
Mar 20 2021Keller will start Opening Day against the Rangers on April 1, Josh Vernier of 610 Sports reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller avoided arbitration with the Royals in January, and he'll take the mound for Kansas City to begin the regular season in the second Opening Day start of his career. The right-hander has made three Cactus League starts this spring, and he's allowed eight runs (six earned) on 15 hits and seven walks while striking out six over 9.1 innings.
Jan 15 2021Keller agreed to a one-year, $3.35 million deal with the Royals on Friday, avoiding arbitration, Lynn Worthy of The Kansas City Star reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller isn't a spectacular starting pitcher, but he has proven to be a capable rotation stalwart. The 25-year-old righty has consistently beaten deserved ERA estimators. He logged a 2.47 ERA in nine starts last year, but his subpar 16.3 percent strikeout rate contributed to a 3.43 FIP. Keller's career 52.1 percent groundball rate helps him to get by without the ability to miss bats at a high clip.
Sep 25 2020Keller (5-3) threw six shutout innings, allowing just four hits while striking out five in a win over the Tigers on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller was lights out Friday -- only one of the four batters to reach against him got past first base. It was a big bounce-back effort for the righty, who gave up five runs in five innings in his last outing. Keller ends the season with a 2.47 ERA, 1.02 WHIP and 35:17 K:BB across 54.2 innings in nine starts.
Sep 20 2020Keller (4-3) allowed five runs on five hits and three walks over five innings Sunday, striking out four and taking the loss against Milwaukee. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: For most of the afternoon, Keller had a fine outing, unless Daniel Vogelbach was at the dish. He coughed up two homers to the lefty slugger, one in the first inning and another in the sixth, accounting for all five of Milwaukee's runs. The 25-year-old's ERA jumped from 2.06 to 2.77 across 48.2 innings this season. Keller will make his final start of the season Friday at home against Detroit.
Sep 13 2020Keller (4-2) allowed five hits and a walk while striking out two across nine scoreless innings to earn the win Sunday against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller didn't overpower the Pirates, but was able to pepper with the strike zone as 73 of his 111 pitches found the zone. It was another strong effort for Keller, as he's now allowed one or fewer earned runs in five of his seven outings this season. He has had two fairly big missteps in his remaining starts, but overall has a tremendous 2.06 ERA with a more middling 26:14 K:BB across 43.2 frames. Keller's next turn through the rotation is currently projected to come Sunday at Milwaukee.
Sep 7 2020Keller (3-2) took the loss Monday, giving up five runs (four earned) on eight hits and a walk over 6.2 innings as the Royals fell 5-2 to Cleveland. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All eight hits off Keller were singles, but Cleveland was able to string them together enough to generate some offense. The 25-year-old has now been tagged for five runs in two of his last three outings, but he'll still take a strong 2,60 ERA and 1.10 WHIP into his next start Saturday, at home against the Pirates.
Aug 31 2020Keller allowed a run on three hits and a walk while striking out four over 6.1 innings but didn't factor in the decision Monday versus Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller dueled well with Cleveland starter Shane Bieber, but the former didn't get any run support while he was on the mound. The Royals rallied for a pair of runs in the eighth to get their starter off the hook. The 25-year-old Keller has a 1.93 ERA, 1.04 WHIP and 23:12 K:BB through 28 innings across five starts. He's allowed one run or fewer in four of his outings. The right-hander will look to stay strong versus the White Sox over the weekend.
Aug 24 2020Keller (3-1) took the loss Monday against the Cardinals, allowing five runs on six hits and three walks across four innings pitched. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller entered Monday's start on a roll, winning each of his first three starts while allowing no runs across 17.2 innings pitched. It was a different story in Monday's loss, as St. Louis bounced the right-hander with three singles and a walk to start the fifth inning. He left the game with St. Louis holding a 2-0 lead, but was charged with an additional three runs after Greg Holland gave up a pair of doubles to Paul DeJong and Dexter Fowler. Keller is scheduled to toe the rubber next against Cleveland on Monday.
Aug 19 2020Keller (3-0) allowed three hits over 6.2 scoreless in a win over the Reds in the first game of Wednesday's doubleheader. He struck out five and walked three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller's ERA remains spotless; he's now up to 17.2 scoreless innings on the season. He was locating his slider down Wednesday, took a no-hitter into the sixth and nearly went the distance in this seven-inning game. Keller should probably be picked up in any leagues in which he's still available. The righty lines up for two road starts next week, first in St. Louis before an interdivisional matchup against Chicago.
Aug 12 2020Keller (2-0) allowed two hits and three walks over six scoreless innings in a win over the Reds on Wednesday. He struck out three batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander turned in a second consecutive scoreless start, this time in Great American Ball Park. Both of the hits against him were singles, one a bunt single. Keller, who began the season on the COVID-19 injured list, is still working mostly fastball-slider, mixing in only the occasional changeup. However, Keller should at least have most fantasy players' attention after his hot start. He lines up to face the Reds in Kansas City next week.
Aug 7 2020Keller (1-0) earned the win against the Cubs on Thursday, pitching five scoreless innings and allowing three hits and two walks while striking out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller missed most of summer camp due to a positive test for COVID-19, but he looked strong in his season debut Thursday, limiting Chicago to a trio of singles while tossing 52 of 75 pitches for strikes. The Royals' offense made Keller's outing mostly pressure-free, staking him to a nine-run lead by the end of the third inning. The right-hander will look to build on his promising opening act in a tough matchup on the road at Minnesota next Friday.
Aug 6 2020Keller (illness) was activated ahead of his start Thursday against the Cubs, Jeffrey Flanagan of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He has been unable to make his 2020 debut prior to this outing due to a positive COVID-19 test. It is unclear how stretched out Keller is, but for those in mixed leagues, it would be best to see how he looks in this first outing before deploying him. He will have another tough matchup on tap next week in Cincinnati.
Aug 4 2020Keller (illness) will make his season debut Thursday against the Cubs, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A positive coronavirus test wiped out much of Keller's camp and sent him to the COVID-19 injured list to open the season. He'll wind up missing just two turns in the rotation, though it's not yet clear how deep he'll be expected to go in Thursday's game.
Aug 2 2020Royals general manager Dayton Moore said Keller could be ready to return from the COVID-19 injured list to start Thursday against the Cubs or Friday against the Twins, Josh Vernier of 610 Sports reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller has been working out with the team for more than two weeks after a positive COVID-19 test sidelined him for much of summer camp. After facing hitters in a live batting practice Saturday, Keller will likely throw one more tune-up bullpen session before the Royals determine where to slot him into their pitching schedule this week. Kansas City has been running out a four-man rotation since Mike Montgomery (lat) was shut down last week, so Keller would ideally return from the IL on Thursday, when a fifth starter will first be needed.
Aug 1 2020Keller (not injury related) impressed manager Mike Matheny in a live batting practice session Saturday and could be activated from the COVID-19 injured list soon, Lynn Worthy of The Kansas City Star reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A positive coronavirus test wiped out most of Keller's camp and sent him to the injured list to start the year, but it doesn't sound as though he'll wind up missing too much time. He'll be needed in the rotation and should be one of the Royals' top starters after posting a respectable 4.19 ERA in 28 starts last year.
Jul 21 2020Keller (not injury related) will begin the season on the injured list, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A positive COVID-19 test prevented Keller from arriving at camp until Friday, and he's not expected to be quite in game shape for the start of the year. It's uncertain when the Royals expect him to make his debut. They'll need a fifth starter on July 28 against the Tigers, but it sounds like Keller may not be ready to take the mound by that point.
Jul 20 2020Keller (not injury related) completed a simulated game Sunday, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller remains on the Royals' COVID-19 injured list, but after reporting to camp Friday, the right-hander is healthy again and merely building up to a starter's workload at this point. Lewis suggests there's a chance Keller could build up to a 3-to-4-inning workload at some point this week, which could make him a candidate to make his season debut when the Royals first require a fifth starter July 28 in Detroit. Jorge Lopez and Glenn Sparkman look like the top candidates for a spot start in the event Keller needs to miss his first turn through the rotation.
Jul 17 2020Keller (illness) was cleared to rejoin the Royals on Friday, Jeffrey Flanagan of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller was placed on the COVID-19 injured list Tuesday, but he was able to rejoin the team for camp Friday. He was experiencing mild symptoms, and it's unclear what physical state he's in as he returns to the team. The timing of the right-hander's placement on the 10-day injured list means that he'll miss the start of the season, but whether he misses more than one turn through the rotation remains to be seen.
Jul 15 2020The Royals placed Keller (illness) on the COVID-19 injured list Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller and Ryan O'Hearn were both moved to the IL just a few days after they were revealed to have tested positive for the coronavirus, while Salvador Perez was activated from the COVID-19 IL after clearing all health-related protocols. The 24-year-old right-hander is believed to only be contending with mild symptoms of the coronavirus, but his absence from camp will take him out of the mix for the Opening Day nod. Instead, the Royals will have Danny Duffy take the hill when the team begins its season July 24 in Cleveland.
Jul 7 2020Keller tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday, Andersen Pickard of MLBDailyDish.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Keller said that he's experienced only mild symptoms, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports, but he'll have to go into isolation and won't be allowed to return to the field until he tests negative twice. He's expected to be one of the Royals' top starters this year, but his positive test likely means he won't have enough time to get into game shape by Opening Day.
Mar 25 2020Keller gave up 11 runs in 6.2 innings this spring, but he finished on a strong note in his third and final start, Jesse Borek of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He tossed four innings and allowed one run on five hits while walking one and striking out three during his first outing throwing to Salvador Perez since 2018. Keller mentioned how much he enjoyed having Perez behind the dish and was encouraged by how well he threw his slider in his final outing of the spring. Keller and Danny Duffy are the top two candidates to take the ball on Opening Day.
Feb 20 2020Keller is scheduled to start Monday in the Royals' Cactus League game against the Padres, Lynn Worthy of The Kansas City Star reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While he makes his first start of the spring, Keller is expected to unveil a curveball, a new pitch he added to his arsenal during the offseason, per Alec Lewis of The Athletic. Keller is hopeful that the addition of the curveball as a fourth pitch will give him more time to further hone his changeup in side sessions while providing him with another alternative for hitters who handle sliders better than curves. Though he'll essentially be trading out the changeup for the curveball, Keller is still expected to rely heavily on the four-seamer/slider/sinker combination that accounted for 98.6 percent of his overall pitches in 2019.
Aug 28 2019Keller will be shut down for the season for workload reasons, Lynn Worthy of The Kansas City Star reports.
Aug 27 2019Keller (7-14) gave up five runs on three hits and three walks while striking out one through 1.1 innings to take the loss against the Athletics on Monday.
Aug 26 2019Manager Ned Yost said that Keller will be capped at 100 pitches in his start Monday against the Athletics and any additional turns that follow this season, Jeffrey
Aug 21 2019Keller threw six shutout innings while allowing three hits and two walks along with four strikeouts in a no-decision against the Orioles on Tuesday.
Aug 14 2019Keller (7-13) was charged with the loss against the Cardinals on Wednesday after allowing three runs on three hits and three walks while striking out five over six
Aug 9 2019Keller (7-12) was hit with the loss after yielding five runs on 10 hits and three walks while striking out six over six innings Friday night against the Tigers.
Aug 4 2019Keller (7-11) gave up two runs on five hits and one walk while striking out seven through seven innings to take the loss against the Twins on Sunday.
Jul 29 2019Keller (7-10) gave up four runs on eight hits and no walks while striking out five through seven innings to take the loss against the Blue Jays on Monday.
Jul 24 2019Keller (7-9) allowed four hits and walked one while striking out three through seven scoreless innings to take the win over the Braves on Wednesday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 18 2019Keller (6-9) allowed four runs (two earned) on nine hits and two walks while striking out seven across 6.1 innings to earn the win Thursday against the White Sox.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 13 2019Keller (5-9) earned the win Saturday against the Tigers after allowing one run on four hits across eight innings. He struck out seven and did not issue a walk.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 6 2019Keller allowed one run on six hits with five walks and two strikeouts across 5.2 innings in a no-decision against the Nationals on Friday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 6 2019Keller allowed one run on six hits with five walks and two strikeouts across 5.2 innings during a no-decision against the Nationals on Friday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 30 2019Keller (4-9) gave up six runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out three through five innings to take the win over the Blue Jays on Sunday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 24 2019Keller struck out four and gave up three hits through three scoreless innings in a no-decision against the Indians.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 19 2019Keller (3-9) took the loss Wednesday, coughing up seven runs on nine hits and two walks over four innings while striking out five as the Royals were downed 8-2 by the Mariners.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 15 2019Keller didn't factor into the decision in Friday's 2-0 loss to the Twins, giving up three hits and three walks over seven scoreless innings while striking out five.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 8 2019Keller fell to 3-8 on the season despite allowing just two runs in eight innings Saturday against the White Sox. He gave up just five hits and one walk while striking out four batters.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 8 2019Keller fell to 3-8 on the season despite allowing just two runs in eight innings Saturday against the White Sox. He gave up five hits and one walk while striking out four.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 2 2019Keller (3-7) coughed up three runs on nine hits in seven innings Sunday, striking out six and taking the loss to the Rangers.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 28 2019Keller (3-6) took the loss Tuesday, giving up four runs on 10 hits and a walk over six innings while striking out three as the Royals fell 4-3 to the White Sox.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 22 2019Keller (3-5) allowed two earned runs on two hits and four walks while striking out three across seven innings to earn the win in the first game of Wednesday's doubleheader against the Cardinals.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 18 2019Keller (2-5) was charged with the loss Friday at Angel Stadium, surrendering four runs on seven hits and five walks while striking out three.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 18 2019Keller (2-5) was charged with the loss to the Angels on Friday, surrendering four runs on seven hits and five walks while striking out three over 5.2 innings.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 11 2019Keller (2-4) took the loss against the Phillies on Saturday by giving up six runs (five earned) on five hits. He struck out three and walked four.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 23 2018Keller (3-4) allowed three runs on three hits and two walks across seven innings to earn the win Sunday against the Twins. He struck out eight.Keller limited baserunners for most of the afternoon, giving up a pair of runs in a fourth-inning rally and another on a solo home run in the eighth. The outing was his second-longest of the season and he notched a new career high in punchouts. Keller struggled to the tune of nine earned runs allowed over 7.1 combined innings in his last two starts, but he's now gone at least seven innings while delivering a quality start in three of his last five. He'll carry a solid 3.20 ERA into next weekend's start against the Yankees.
Jul 14 2018Keller (2-4) took the loss Friday as the Royals fell 9-6 to the White Sox, coughing up five runs on seven hits and four walks over 2.2 innings while striking out one.It was the right-hander's shortest outing since moving into the rotation in June. Keller's ERA has increased by more than a full run over his last two starts, but he'll still take a 3.13 ERA, 1.37 WHIP and 36:27 K:BB through 63.1 innings into the All-Star break.
Jul 7 2018Keller allowed four runs on six hits and five walks while striking out two over 4.2 innings in a no-decision against the Red Sox on Saturday.This was a stumble for Keller after several strong outings. He couldn't find the strike zone consistently, issuing as many free passes as he had in his previous three starts combined, and he wasn't fooling anyone with just four swinging strikes on 89 pitches. The lack of dominance has been a theme throughout Keller's major-league tenure, as he's totaled just 35 strikeouts in 60.2 innings. Next week's start against the White Sox in Chicago will be a good test for the groundballer.
Jul 1 2018Keller (2-3) allowed one earned run on six hits and no walks while striking out three across eight innings to take the loss Sunday against the Mariners.Keller was a tough-luck loser, outdueled by by James Paxton despite recording his third consecutive quality start. He has increased his workload with each start, and has now surpassed 100 pitches in each of his past two efforts. While he lacks strikeouts, he has generated groundballs at a 59 percent rate and allowed only one home run in his 56 innings. That number is likely to rise as the season wears on, but his FIP suggests that he is deserving of good results.
Jun 25 2018Keller (2-2) fired seven scoreless frames Monday against the Angels, allowing two hits and two walks while striking out six and earning his second win of the season.The Rule 5 pick has been quietly effective as the Royals have stretched him out, giving up seven earned runs over 25.2 innings in five starts, good for a 2.46 ERA over that stretch. He has only struck out 17 over that span, so his strikeout upside may be limited, but in deeper formats he could be worth a flyer. Keller figures to start again this weekend in Seattle.
Jun 21 2018Keller will make his next start Tuesday in Milwaukee, Jeffrey Flanagan of MLB.com reports.Due to an off day Thursday, manager Ned Yost elected to alter the rotation and skip Keller's scheduled turn Saturday in Houston, with that nod now going to Ian Kennedy. After making his first 21 appearances this season out of the bullpen, Keller has gradually worked deeper into each of his four starts since replacing the injured Eric Skoglund (elbow) in the rotation. He has posted a 2.01 ERA and 1.07 WHIP over those four turns, but a 5.2 K/9 rate over that span has limited his fantasy upside.
Jun 17 2018Keller tossed six innings Sunday, yielding three runs on three walks and nine hits in a 7-4 loss to the Astros. He recorded just one strikeout.Since moving to a starting role, the 6-foot-5 rookie has allowed seven earned runs in 18.2 innings with 11 punch outs and nine walks. On the year, Keller owns a 2.63 ERA with a 1-2 record and 24 strikeouts across 41 innings. Assuming he sticks around in the rotation, he should face Houston once again next weekend.
Jun 10 2018Keller didn't factor into the decision against Oakland on Sunday, giving up two earned runs on five hits over 5.1 innings, striking out four and walking four in Kansas City's 3-2 loss.This was Keller's longest outing as a starter since he moved to Kansas City's rotation from the bullpen on May 30, and his overall numbers on the season are solid, as he's got a 2.31 ERA, a 1.23 WHIP and 23 strikeouts over 35 innings. He's likely pitched well enough to keep a spot in the rotation with Eric Skoglund out with an elbow injury, but at this point, there isn't enough of a body of work here to tell if Keller is more than a roll of the dice for fantasy purposes.
Jun 6 2018Keller (1-2) allowed one run on five hits in a loss to the Angels on Tuesday, striking out three and walking one in 4.1 innings.Making just his second start of the season, Keller didn't allow any extra-base hits and was able to go 75 pitches deep (45 for strikes) in his longest outing of the year. He now holds a 2.12 ERA and 1.15 WHIP while holding opponents to a .225 batting average. His next start will be against the A's in Oakland.
May 30 2018Keller didn't factor into the decision in Wednesday's 11-8 win over the Twins, allowing one run on three hits and a walk over three innings while striking out three.The rookie threw 29 of 51 pitches for strikes before getting the hook, and Keller did manage to generate eight swinging strikes while he was on the mound. While his fantasy value is muted until he's stretched out enough to have a chance at a win, Keller will take a 2.13 ERA into his next outing Tuesday on the road against the Angels.
May 26 2018Keller will start Wednesday's game against the Twins, Maria Torres of The Kansas City Star reports.The Rule 5 pick threw 33 pitches in two innings Saturday, so he will have to come back a day early to make the start, meaning it will likely be the equivalent of a bullpen game. His longest outing of the month was a 43-pitch, three-inning appearance on May 11, so expecting much more than three innings out of Keller in this start would be pretty optimistic. Keller has a shot at sticking in the rotation going forward, as Eric Skoglund (elbow) is out indefinitely. The 22-year-old righty has a 2.01 ERA and 13:7 K:BB in 22.1 innings of relief this season.
Dec 14 2017Keller was selected by the Reds with the fifth pick in the Rule 5 draft Thursday and then dealt to the Royals for cash considerations, Jeffrey Flanagan of MLB.com reports.A 22-year-old righty, Keller posted a 4.68 ERA, 1.52 WHIP and 111 strikeouts in 130.2 innings at Double-A last season. He projects as a No. 5 starter, at best, but he has significant experience in the upper levels of the minors, which likely appealed to the Royals. He should serve as a mop-up man out of the bullpen this year, as the Royals need to keep him on the active roster all season, otherwise he will be exposed to waivers and offered back to the Diamondbacks.