Non-roster invitee highlight: Kyle Keller is making a good first impression
Kyle Keller is making the most of his opportunities as he battles for a roster spot
As the Red Sox continue their Grapefruit League slate, multiple arms are battling for a bullpen spot. That includes Kyle Keller, who is a non-roster invitee. The veteran righty had been pitching overseas before signing a minor-league deal with the Red Sox last month and spent the last two seasons as a member of the Yomiuri Giants.
Through the first few weeks of spring training, Keller has gotten limited work, but he is making the most of his opportunities. In 3.2 innings, the Louisiana native has not allowed an earned run and struck out two batters. He also has not allowed a hit but walked four batters.
While Keller has not pitched in the States in over four years, he is coming off a very productive stint in the NPB. He posted a 2.42 ERA in 152.1 innings of work and struck out 26.3 % of the batters he faced. That is partly why he drew the Red Sox’s interest during the winter as they looked to improve their bullpen depth.
Although Keller has a small sample size this spring, he has also shown he can miss bats. When batters have reached, the 2015 draftee has worked out of trouble and been a reliable arm for Alex Cora during Grapefruit League play.
Before going overseas, Keller pitched for the Marlins, Angels, and Pirates. In 44 games, he posted a 5.83 ERA and struck out 48 batters. He did at times struggle with control, walking 32 batters. In order to earn a spot on the major league roster, he will have to show that his control issues are a thing of the past.
Over the next few weeks, Keller will need to be lights out to earn a spot. Some locks to make the team are Aroldis Chapman, Garrett Whitlock, Justin Slaten, and Greg Weissert. The Red Sox’s fifth starter competition also includes some veterans, such as Kutter Crawford and Johan Oviedo, who have pitched out of the bullpen in the past. Payton Tolle and Connelly Early are also in the mix, but they could begin the season in Triple-A if the Red Sox decide they need more development.
With a few weeks still left in spring training, Keller has plenty of time to build his case for a roster spot. While he does not have an easy path ahead, he has made the most of his chances so far.
I think Keller and Tayron Guerrero are the two NRI arms with a shot at hading north with the Big Club. Good stuff 💪🏼