New York aims to capitalize on struggling Pirates pitcher Mitch Keller in key matchup
Category: Sports
The New York Yankees (56-44) are set to face the Pittsburgh Pirates (52-49) in a doubleheader on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at Yankee Stadium, with the first pitch scheduled for 1:05 p.m. ET. The Yankees enter the matchup as heavy favorites, with a -170 moneyline, and are looking to build on their recent momentum following an 8-5 victory in their last game, highlighted by a two-home run performance from second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr.
The postponement of Tuesday's game due to inclement weather has led to this doubleheader, which is expected to be a high-scoring affair. The Yankees are in a strong position to capitalize on the Pirates' struggling starting pitcher Mitch Keller, who has been plagued by poor performance over the last month.
Keller, who has a career ERA of 4.71 over five seasons, is struggling significantly this season, currently posting a 6.0 ERA and a concerning 6.47 expected ERA (xERA). He has been allowing a high volume of hard contact, with 2.57 home runs allowed per nine innings during his recent outings. This trend does not bode well for him as he faces a potent Yankees lineup that ranks eighth in home runs and seventh in isolated power (ISO) against right-handed pitchers in July.
On the other hand, Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole, who has a 3.93 ERA in 2026, is looking to regain his form after returning from Tommy John surgery. Cole has had some inconsistencies, allowing 1.91 home runs per nine innings at Yankee Stadium, raising concerns about his ability to contain the Pirates' offense. Nevertheless, with the Yankees’ recent struggles in the standings, they are eager to secure wins to bolster their playoff position.
The Yankees have experienced a rollercoaster season, starting strong with a 48-31 record on June 24, 2026, but have since faltered, going 8-13 and finding themselves just 1.5 games out of first place in the American League East. Injuries have significantly impacted their performance, with key players like Aaron Judge, who was placed on the 60-day injured list due to a fractured rib, and Giancarlo Stanton, whose calf strain is more serious than initially assessed, missing from the lineup. The return of pitcher Max Fried for the second game of the doubleheader offers some hope for the Yankees as they navigate these challenges.
Meanwhile, the Pirates are also in a competitive position, tied with the Miami Marlins for the final Wild Card spot in the National League. Historically, the Pirates have been sellers at the trade deadline, but this year they could be looking to improve their roster as they seek to maintain their playoff contention. Their offense has been strong, but their bullpen has been a weak link, ranking 21st in the league with a 4.28 ERA.
The weather conditions for the doubleheader are expected to be favorable for hitters, with temperatures in the mid-80s and strong winds blowing out toward the outfield. This environment could exacerbate Keller's struggles, as he has shown a tendency to give up home runs, particularly against quality offensive teams.
As the Yankees aim to solidify their playoff position, the outcome of the doubleheader could have lasting implications for both teams. A strong performance from Cole could help restore confidence in the Yankees' rotation, which has been under scrutiny due to injuries and inconsistent performances. The Yankees need to capitalize on Keller's vulnerabilities to secure a much-needed win.
For the Pirates, a victory in one or both games could bolster their chances of making a serious playoff push. With the trade deadline approaching, how they perform against a formidable opponent like the Yankees could influence their decision-making process. If the Pirates can leverage their offensive strength against Cole and Keller, they may secure wins and demonstrate their readiness to contend.
As the teams prepare for the doubleheader, fans will follow closely closely to see if the Yankees can continue their success and if the Pirates can rise to the occasion. The first game will set the tone for the day, and with both teams having much at stake, the matchup will likely be an exciting display of Major League Baseball.
The first pitch of the doubleheader is scheduled for 1:05 p.m. ET, and with the stakes high for both teams, it will undoubtedly be a game to watch.