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Shelton Backs Keller Amidst Pirates Pitcher's Struggles

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, April 7th 2026 at 8:04 GMT by Sporting News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

PITTSBURGH, PA - April 7, 2026 - Despite a recent slump that has seen his ERA climb, Pittsburgh Pirates manager Derek Shelton remains steadfast in his support of starting pitcher Mitch Keller. Following a promising start to the season, Keller has hit a rough patch, raising concerns among fans and analysts alike. However, Shelton is emphasizing patience and a return to fundamental principles, believing Keller possesses the talent and mental fortitude to overcome his current difficulties.

Keller's last three starts have been a noticeable downturn from his strong beginning to the 2026 campaign. He's surrendered a concerning 18 earned runs across just 16 and 1/3 innings, pushing his ERA to 5.70 over those outings. This sharp contrast with his early-season performance - a stellar 2.31 ERA over 32 and 1/3 innings - has understandably prompted questions about his form.

Speaking to reporters before Tuesday's game against the San Francisco Giants, Shelton addressed the situation, explicitly stating the team's continued faith in Keller. "We've talked to Mitch about, we know what he's capable of," Shelton said. "I've seen him do it. I know he can do it. But we've also talked to him about getting back to who he is." Shelton's comments are not simply platitudes; they underscore a belief in Keller's intrinsic abilities and a willingness to invest in his resurgence.

The manager attributes the current struggles to temporary setbacks, suggesting a dip in form is not necessarily indicative of a deeper, more systemic issue. This is a common approach for managers navigating the inevitable ebbs and flows of a long baseball season. While acknowledging the statistical downturn, Shelton is prioritizing addressing the root causes of Keller's recent performance rather than immediately making drastic changes.

"Sometimes you have little streaks, and you've just got to get back to the basics," Shelton explained. "We know Mitch is going to get back to the basics. We're here to support him and make sure he's doing what he needs to do." This focus on "the basics" likely involves a re-emphasis on pitching mechanics, command, and game planning - the core elements of successful pitching. Analysts suggest that a review of Keller's pitch selection and sequencing might also be beneficial, identifying any patterns opponents have begun to exploit.

The Pirates' commitment to Keller is particularly noteworthy considering the current landscape of Major League Baseball, where quick hooks and a focus on immediate results are increasingly prevalent. Shelton's willingness to provide support and work with Keller, rather than immediately benching him or making significant alterations, signals a long-term vision for the pitcher's development.

Keller himself is known for his competitive spirit and work ethic, qualities that Shelton highlighted. "He's a competitor. He's got a big heart. He's got all the things you want," Shelton noted. These intangible assets, combined with Keller's proven track record, provide a foundation for optimism that he can rediscover his earlier success.

Looking ahead, Keller is scheduled to take the mound again this Saturday against the Colorado Rockies. This start will be a critical opportunity for him to demonstrate progress and begin to rebuild confidence, both within himself and among the Pirates faithful. The Rockies present a challenging matchup, but a return to home - PNC Park - could provide a familiar and supportive environment.

This situation also highlights a broader conversation within the Pirates organization regarding player development. While aiming for competitive success, the team appears to be prioritizing fostering an environment where players can learn from their mistakes and reach their full potential. Shelton's consistent messaging, even during difficult times, is crucial to this process. The Pirates, after years of rebuilding, are hoping to establish a sustainable winning culture, and supporting key players like Keller through adversity is a vital component of that goal. The team will be closely monitoring Keller's next few starts to see if their patient approach yields positive results. The upcoming game against the Rockies will be a key test.