The Pirates faced some uncertainty at the catching position after this season. Stewart was extended, but he's not a starter at this point, but a very good backup. Elias Diaz has been plaqued by the injury bug and won't get it going agai until next year and even then who knows how he will perform. The next big catcher would be Reese McGuire, but he is moving slower through the lower parts of the minors than the Pirates had hoped. Getting Cervelli for a few more years was key.
They also were able to get Cervelli at below market value. He would've gotten more money had he elected free agency. However, Cervelli has always been a team guy, and that came out in this deal. In the offseason, he even said that he "doesn't want to be jumping around too much". Well, congrats Francisco, you won't be going anywhere for a few more years.
Cervelli has been great for the Pirates and is having a great season at the plate despite not being a power guy. His work behind the plate has helped out immensely and the pitching staff won't have to adjust to a 4th starting catcher in 6 years (Barajas, Martin, Cervelli over past 5 years). The pitching staff knows that Cervelli and Stewart will likely be the battery for awhile. The pitching staff knowing that has got to make them feel comfortable.
This deal is a slam dunk for the Pirates. They've really done a great job with in-season extensions in the past overall. There's little to suggest that this one will blow up in the Pirates' face. Cervelli is a steady player that you know what you'll get. That made this extension an easy decision.
No comments:
Post a Comment