This winter might be the Pirates’ most important offseason since 2012, the months before they made the leap from a sub-.500 club to the postseason in '13. The circumstances this winter are similar, as the Pirates ( 71-91 ) finished last in the National League Central, but club president Travis Williams was clear with their expectations: “Win in 2026 and to make the playoffs. Period. Full stop.”

It’s a pivotal winter. Their most pivotal decision is what they will do with Mitch Keller .

The veteran righty is coming off a solid season, albeit not to his previous All-Star level, finishing 6-15 with a 4.19 ERA over 32 starts and 176 1/3 innings. That’s a valuable pitcher, but Keller could also bring back an impact player in return.

Time will tell if the Pirates decide to make a move, but

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