35 Facts About Mitch Keller

Early Life and Background

Mitch Keller's journey to becoming a professional baseball player is filled with interesting tidbits. Let's dive into his early years and background.

1. Mitch Keller was born on April 4, 1996, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
2. He attended Xavier High School in Cedar Rapids, where he played baseball and honed his pitching skills.
3. Keller's older brother, Jon Keller, also played professional baseball, making it a family affair.
4. Mitch was committed to play college baseball at the University of North Carolina before being drafted.
5. The Pittsburgh Pirates selected Keller in the second round of the 2014 MLB Draft.

Rise Through the Minor Leagues

Keller's path through the minor leagues showcased his talent and determination. Here are some key moments from his minor league career.

6. Keller began his professional career with the Gulf Coast League Pirates in 2014.
7. In 2015, he played for the Bristol Pirates, posting a 2.44 ERA in 47 innings.
8. The 2016 season saw Keller split time between the West Virginia Power and the Bradenton Marauders.
9. He was named to the All-Star Futures Game in 2017, a prestigious honor for top prospects.
10. Keller finished the 2017 season with the Altoona Curve, the Pirates' Double-A affiliate.

Major League Debut

Making it to the majors is a dream for every baseball player. Keller's debut was a significant milestone in his career.

11. Mitch Keller made his MLB debut on May 27, 2019, against the Cincinnati Reds.
12. In his debut, he struck out seven batters in four innings, showcasing his potential.
13. Keller's first MLB win came on August 12, 2019, against the Los Angeles Angels.
14. He finished the 2019 season with a 1-5 record but showed flashes of brilliance.
15. Keller's fastball, which can reach up to 98 mph, quickly became his signature pitch.

Notable Achievements and Records

Keller has already made a mark in the MLB with several notable achievements and records.

16. In 2020, Keller threw 11 consecutive hitless innings over two starts, a rare feat.
17. He was named the Pirates' Minor League Pitcher of the Year in 2017 and 2018.
18. Keller's 2020 season was cut short due to an oblique injury, but he still managed a 2.91 ERA.
19. He recorded his first career complete game on May 14, 2021, against the San Francisco Giants.
20. Keller's strikeout rate has consistently been above the league average, highlighting his dominance on the mound.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond the baseball diamond, Mitch Keller has a life filled with interesting hobbies and personal interests.

21. Keller married his high school sweetheart, Clancy, in 2019.
22. The couple has a dog named Wrigley, named after the iconic Wrigley Field.
23. Keller enjoys fishing during the offseason, often sharing his catches on social media.
24. He is an avid fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes, supporting their football and basketball teams.
25. Keller has a passion for cooking and often experiments with new recipes.

Challenges and Comebacks

Every athlete faces challenges, and Keller is no exception. His resilience is evident in his comebacks.

26. Keller underwent Tommy John surgery in high school, a major procedure for pitchers.
27. Despite the surgery, he bounced back stronger, impressing scouts with his recovery.
28. Keller faced a rough patch in 2021, with a 6.17 ERA, but worked tirelessly to improve.
29. He credits his mental toughness and support from family for overcoming obstacles.
30. Keller's dedication to his craft is evident in his rigorous offseason training regimen.

Future Prospects

Keller's career is still in its early stages, and the future looks promising for this talented pitcher.

31. Analysts believe Keller has the potential to become an All-Star in the near future.
32. His improved control and pitch selection have been key areas of focus.
33. Keller's leadership qualities have made him a mentor to younger pitchers on the team.
34. The Pirates see Keller as a cornerstone of their pitching staff for years to come.
35. Fans eagerly anticipate Keller's continued growth and success in the MLB.

Mitch Keller: A Pitcher to Watch

Mitch Keller's journey in baseball is nothing short of inspiring. From his early days in Iowa to making waves in the MLB, he's shown grit and determination. His impressive stats, like his strikeout rates and fastball velocity, make him a standout. Off the field, Keller's dedication to community service and his humble nature add to his appeal. Fans and analysts alike are excited to see how his career will unfold. With his talent and work ethic, there's no doubt Keller will continue to be a key player to watch in the coming seasons. Whether you're a die-hard baseball fan or just getting into the sport, keeping an eye on Mitch Keller is a must. His story reminds us all that with hard work and passion, great things are possible.