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Brad Keller firmly in mix for Cubs bullpen role

Related Topics: Brad Keller, Matt Olson, Chicago Cubs

Steph Chambers/Getty

MESA, Ariz. — Right-hander Brad Keller made a heck of a last impression in his lone inning in the Cubs’ 13-4 spring loss Monday to the Braves.

He pitched a 1-2-3 inning that he capped by striking out Braves star Matt Olson and has 13 strikeouts in 11‰ innings spanning seven spring outings. The uptick in his velocity has stood out and is more than the Cubs envisioned when they signed him to a minor-league deal this offseason.

Keller, who is battling for a spot in the Cubs’ bullpen, was able to revitalize his career because of changes he made after signing with the Red Sox last season.