The Chicago Cubs have invited some players to spring training, but one veteran pitcher seems almost guaranteed a spot on the team. While the Dodgers invited star pitcher Roki Sasaki, the Cubs have Brad Keller, who is already making a strong case for the Opening Day roster.
Keller has been one of the best players for the Cubs during Cactus League games. Except for a rough outing against the Cleveland Guardians last weekend, he has been outstanding in spring training.
With Javier Assad likely starting the season injured and Jordan Wicks expected to pitch in Triple-A, Keller has a great chance to make the Cubs’ Opening Day team. Even without these situations, it looks like the Cubs already planned for him to pitch in the Major Leagues this season.
According to Patrick Mooney of The Athletic, Cubs manager Craig Counsell personally helped recruit Keller, joining a video call with him before he signed a minor-league deal. Other MLB teams are also interested in Keller, who will earn $1.5 million in 2025 if he stays on the Cubs’ roster.
Brad Keller played for both the Chicago White Sox and Boston Red Sox in 2024, finishing with a 5.44 ERA in 16 games. However, during spring training, he has shown big improvements. His strikeout rate is now 21.4%, and his walk rate is only 3.6%, much better than before.
With Drew Smyly no longer on the Cubs’ pitching staff, Keller has a good chance to take on the role of a flexible bullpen pitcher. His increased speed during spring training makes him a strong option to bring in when the Cubs need a change of pace. This could be even more important if Ben Brown replaces Javier Assad in the starting rotation.
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