Texas Rangers relief pitcher Keone Kela (50) throws during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Houston Astros, Wednesday, July 4, 2018, in Arlington, Texas. Houston won 5-4 in 10 innings. (AP Photo/Brandon Wade)Brandon Wade/Associated Press

MLB Trade Rumors: Keone Kela a Top Target for Pirates

Adam WellsJul 24, 2018

The Pittsburgh Pirates' surge up the National League standings could make them buyers at the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline.

Per Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News, the Pirates have shown "legitimate interest" in Texas Rangers closer Keone Kela.

Pittsburgh entered play on Tuesday riding a 10-game winning streak that has pushed the team within 3.5 games of the second wild card spot in the National League.

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The Pirates' entire pitching staff has been problematic this season. They rank 18th in MLB with a 4.22 ERA overall, with their relievers boasting the same ERA.

In his first full season as Texas' closer, Kela has posted a 3.18 ERA with 23 saves, 25 hits allowed and 41 strikeouts in 34 innings. The Rangers are currently in last place in the American League West with a 42-59 record and are on the verge of missing the postseason for the second straight year.