Mitch Keller has been front and center for one of the worst stretches in the Pirates' history.
The Pirates have finished at least tied for last in the National League Central in each of his four years in the majors. The team will be picking first overall in the amateur draft for the second time in three years. They have lost at least 100 games the last two years.
Despite that recent history, between himself and the Pirates' players, there is an unquestioned sense of optimism for the 2023 season.
"It's awesome," Keller said about the Pirates' offseason at PNC Park Friday.