Get ready for an exciting journey as we dive into the world of baseball and the Pittsburgh Pirates' off-season moves! The Bucs are on a mission to build a powerhouse team, and their recent signings are just the beginning.
On Thursday, the Pirates made a significant move by signing Ryan O'Hearn, their first multi-year free-agent acquisition since 2016. This deal sets a new record for the franchise, with O'Hearn securing the largest free-agent contract for a position player in team history. But here's where it gets intriguing... the Pirates aren't done yet!
General Manager Ben Cherington emphasized the team's commitment to continuous improvement, stating, "We have several weeks until Opening Day, and every day counts. We aim to seize every opportunity to get better."
So, let's explore the areas where the Pirates are looking to strengthen their roster and add some exciting talent.
Pitching:
The Pirates have already made some trades, letting go of potential Opening Day starters Johan Oviedo and Mike Burrows. While the team has some promising starters like Paul Skenes and Mitch Keller, who have thrown over 140 innings in a season, and Jared Jones, who is recovering from elbow surgery, they could benefit from some veteran depth.
Pittsburgh has a preference for left-handed pitchers, especially with PNC Park favoring lefties. Currently, the only southpaw starter option is rookie Hunter Barco, who is far from a guaranteed starter. A reunion with former pitchers José Quintana or Tyler Anderson could be on the cards, as the club has been in contact with both.
But adding pitching depth could also mean bolstering the bullpen. The Pirates have already acquired left-handed relievers Soto and Montgomery, but they might revisit the reliever market to further strengthen their bullpen.
Outfield:
The outfield needed an upgrade, and the Pirates have certainly made strides. Mangum brings contact, speed, and defense to the table, offering the potential to be a starter or a valuable fourth outfielder. Garcia, a top 100 prospect, has high upside, but he, along with Mangum, lacks extensive Major League experience.
O'Hearn can play outfield, but he'll also get reps at first base and as a designated hitter. Jack Suwinski will get another chance during Spring Training, but his performance over the last two years leaves some uncertainty. Other options include Billy Cook, Nick Yorke (the team's No. 12 prospect), and Esmerlyn Valdez (No. 16 prospect), who has yet to reach Triple-A Indianapolis.
While there's potential, the Pirates might consider adding more depth to this position.
Infield:
Top prospect Konnor Griffin will have an opportunity to earn a spot during Spring Training. Triolo had a solid final two months of the season, but given his versatility and Griffin's youth, the Pirates might explore the market further.
There was some buzz around Eugenio Suárez, and the Pirates have shown interest, but it seems unlikely at this stage. The team has also checked in on Yoán Moncada, who, despite recent injury concerns, posted an impressive .815 OPS against right-handed pitchers last year. He could be an attractive platoon partner for Triolo, who had a .798 OPS against lefties.
As the Pirates continue their off-season moves, it's clear they are committed to building a competitive team. But here's the part most people miss: the Pirates aren't just looking to make the playoffs; they're aiming for a championship. Will they succeed? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the Pirates are far from finished, and their fans have a lot to look forward to.
What do you think? Are the Pirates on the right track? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
