Cubs Face Crucial Decision on Free Agent Brad Keller’s Future
The Chicago Cubs are at a pivotal crossroads as they consider whether to retain their standout reliever, Brad Keller, who is set to become a free agent following a remarkable season. Keller, who emerged as the team’s most valuable bullpen asset, expressed his enthusiasm for the game, stating, “This is the most fun I’ve ever had playing baseball.” His personal success coincided with the Cubs’ overall achievement, culminating in a season where they secured 92 wins and advanced past the first playoff round for the first time since 2017.
With Keller’s impending free agency, the Cubs’ front office, led by Jed Hoyer, faces a critical decision: Should they extend a lucrative offer to a player who thrived in 2023, or should they seek to discover the next hidden gem? Hoyer and manager Craig Counsell view the quest for pitching talent as an ongoing process that requires constant attention throughout the year.
Following a grueling postseason that included four elimination games in just ten days, the Cubs’ pitching staff felt the toll. After their elimination against the Milwaukee Brewers in the Division Series, Keller made it clear that he would prefer to continue his career with the Cubs. “Chicago is my favorite city,” he remarked. “I love being in Chicago. I love playing for the Cubs. This is definitely a place that I want to come back to and enjoy.”
While the Cubs have a solid core of returning players, they must address the bullpen situation, especially with several key relievers headed for free agency. Out of the five main relievers Counsell relied on during the playoffs, three are set to hit the market: Keller, lefty Caleb Thielbar, and veteran Drew Pomeranz. Additionally, the Cubs hold a $9 million option on right-handed reliever Andrew Kittredge, who is also nearing free agency.
In recent seasons, the Cubs have hesitated to invest heavily in their bullpen, citing the unpredictability of reliever performance. Instead, they focus on identifying undervalued talent and providing necessary resources for development. This strategy paid off with Keller, who had previously been released by the 2024 Chicago White Sox, a team that would go on to have one of the worst records in major league history.
Keller’s journey included stints with the Boston Red Sox and their Triple-A affiliate, where he gained insights into pitching mechanics and strategies. An offseason program at the Maven Baseball Lab in Atlanta further refined his skills, leading to a significant breakout season. The Cubs signed him to a minor-league deal last winter, and he produced an impressive value of $10.3 million according to FanGraphs’ metrics.
During the regular season, Keller led Cubs pitchers with 68 appearances, maintaining a stellar 2.07 ERA and a 0.962 WHIP. He struck out 27.2 percent of batters faced and was instrumental in the playoffs, allowing just one run over 5 2/3 innings across four games. Keller’s performance not only showcased his skill but also highlighted the importance of team chemistry, which he felt was fostered during their season-opening trip to Japan.
As the Cubs contemplate adjustments to their bullpen model, they will need to ensure they have both depth and an influx of talent. Keller’s background, which includes 114 starts with the Kansas City Royals from 2018 to 2023, demonstrates his durability and flexibility as a pitcher. “Understanding where I came from to now,” Keller said, “I just want to be healthy and then really just let (everything else) play out.”
The decisions made in the coming weeks will not only impact Keller’s future but also shape the direction of the Cubs’ pitching strategy as they aim for continued success in the upcoming seasons.
