⚾ Mitch Keller First Home Win at PNC Park Since July 2024 as Pirates Roll Over Mets
Mitch Keller’s first home win at PNC Park in nearly a year came in dominating fashion as the Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the New York Mets 9-1 on Friday night. Keller tossed 5 1/3 strong innings, allowing just one earned run, and finally received much-needed run support from an offense that exploded for 12 hits and four early runs. It marked his second win of the 2025 season and his first victory since Opening Day on March 28.
🧨 Pirates Offense Erupts to Support Keller
The Pirates’ bats came alive, producing 12 total hits and scoring four runs in the second inning to give Keller a rare cushion. Bryan Reynolds delivered the big blow with a three-run homer in the sixth, putting the game out of reach.
Every player in the lineup reached base safely, showcasing the depth and discipline that’s been missing for much of the season.
🎯 Keller’s Pitching Breakdown
Keller pitched 5 1/3 innings, allowing just five hits, one earned run, and striking out four. His only blemish came on a sweeper to Juan Soto, who sent it over the fence for the Mets’ lone run.
Keller leaned on a balanced arsenal:
- Four-seam fastball
- Slider
- Plus mix-ins of his cutter, curveball, and changeup
This outing marked a confident return to form for a pitcher who hadn’t won at home since July 8, 2024 — also against the Mets.
📈 Mitch Keller: Season Performance Snapshot
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Wins | 2 |
| ERA | 4.67 |
| Strikeouts | 78 |
| Walks | 23 |
| WHIP | 1.31 |
While the stats don’t jump off the page, Keller’s underlying metrics suggest he’s pitched better than the numbers show — and Friday’s run support finally gave him the win he deserved.
🗓️ What’s Next: Pirates vs Mets Continues Saturday
The Pirates and Mets continue their series on Saturday, June 29 at 4:05 p.m. ET. Probable pitchers:
- Pirates: Bailey Falter (6–3, 3.59 ERA)
- Mets: Paul Blackburn (0–2, 6.62 ERA)
The Pirates will aim to keep the momentum going, especially if their offense can replicate Friday’s performance.
💬 FAQs – Mitch Keller First Home Win
Q1: When was Mitch Keller’s last home win before this game?
A: His previous home win came on July 8, 2024, also against the Mets.
Q2: How did Mitch Keller perform against the Mets?
A: He pitched 5 1/3 innings, allowed one run, and struck out four.
Q3: Why hasn’t Keller won more games this season?
A: Keller had the lowest run support of any qualified starter, averaging just 2.1 runs per start before this game.
Q4: Who hit the key home run for the Pirates?
A: Bryan Reynolds hit a three-run homer in the sixth inning to seal the win.
Q5: Who are the starting pitchers for the next game?
A: Bailey Falter (Pirates) vs. Paul Blackburn (Mets) on Saturday at 4:05 p.m. ET.
✅ Final Word
This game was a big relief for Mitch Keller, whose strong start finally translated into a home win at PNC Park after nearly a year. With the Pirates showing life on offense and Keller looking sharp, Pittsburgh may be turning a corner in the 2025 season.
