PITTSBURGH — Mitch Keller is usually someone the Pittsburgh Pirates can rely on a good outing, but he's not had the same effectiveness over the past three-plus weeks. Keller struggled again for the Pirates in his most recent start, giving up seven hits, a two-run home run and six earned runs total in the 6-3 defeat to the Atlanta Braves in the series opener at Truist Park on June 5.He couldn't find consistency throughout, giving up too many easy hits, lacking command and making for a tough start against a great lineup in the Braves.Keller has had great outings this season and it's imperative for the Pirates that he again becomes the veteran that takes on many innings and gives his team a chance to win every time he takes the mound.How Keller Struggled vs. the BravesIt wasn't an easy first inning for Keller, who got two outs, but then gave up a single and a walk before getting a groundout to escape unscathed after 23 pitches.Keller then got an out to start the second inning, then gave up a walk and hit a batter, a strikeout, then an RBI-single to right fielder Ronald Acuña Jr., giving the Braves a 1-0 lead.Jun 5, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves right fielder Ronald Acuna Jr. (13) hits a single against the Pittsburgh Pirates in the sixth inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images