Free agent starting pitcher Dallas Keuchel remains available, and the Houston Astros are reportedly discussing a contract to bring him back. But according to Buster Olney of ESPN, the two sides are “not close to a deal” at this time.
Astros have had recent dialogue with Dallas Keuchel about a possible deal, but as of last night, not close to a deal
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) March 7, 2019
It’s pretty incredible that a pitcher of Keuchel’s caliber remains on the open market with Opening Day just around the corner.
The 2015 Cy Young Award winner clearly still has plenty left in the tank. Last year, Keuchel posted a 3.74 ERA and 153/58 K/BB ratio over 204 2/3 innings with Houston.
In addition to the Astros, the Philadelphia Phillies have been linked to Keuchel recently, according to Jon Heyman, who reports they prefer a short-term deal.
The San Diego Padres have also been mentioned as a team potentially interested in signing Keuchel, however, according to Ken Rosenthal that’s a “longshot.”