Despite the Pirates less-than-encouraging 2016 campaign, one bright spot for them was their bench. David Freese, Matt Joyce, Sean Rodriguez, and eventually John Jaso all became strong contributors in limited roles or off the bench entirely. Since, Sean Rodriguez has left to go to the Braves and Matt Joyce figures to not return to the Pirates as well. Without these two, the Pirates will be looking to re-strengthen the bench. However, it is worth wondering if they would consider taking away from the bench in a trade instead, most notably speaking of David Freese and John Jaso.
Let's start with David Freese. Freese signed a very affordable deal last spring with the Pirates to be a very late add-on and ended up being a massive contributor for them. The former World Series hero of 2011 for the Cardinals joined the other side and hit .270 with 13 homers and 55 RBIs while being able to play both 3B and 1B and doing great fill-in work for Jung Ho Kang. Then, shockingly, Freese signed a very affordable contract that keeps him under team control through 2018 with a cheap option for 2019.
So, why trade Freese when he is so affordable and still can get it done? Well, there are teams out there that would love to have a player like Freese. And when you look at the role for David Freese, it looks like he will be a role player. Bell at 1B, Kang at 3B, and some versatile guys on the team that can fill in too. Right now, David Freese represents more of a luxury for the Pirates than a need. While his contract is quite good, it might not be something the Pirates want to pay for a luxury option. It looks less needed now that roles are clearer than they were when the contact extension was signed. It seems that the Pirates could easily deal Freese and most every team would be willing to take on that contract. It could potentially give the Pirates more spending cash to go towards pitching or other needs, and they could probably get at least a decent return. Nothing too special but a decent piece.
Now to John Jaso. Jaso signed a 2 year contract for just $8M last offseason and was told to learn 1B and did it to the point of overachieving. He eventually did get moved to a bench spot, as expected, when Josh Bell got called up and quickly surged. Despite scrutiny, John Jaso's offensive numbers were not too bad unless you were betting on him being a Silver Slugger. He hit .268 with an on-base percentage of .353 along with 8 HRs and 42 RBIs. All mixed in the pot, he actually did not do too poorly at the plate and excelled defensively.
This type of commodity could be useful for a team that is looking for a stopgap or platoon player at 1B or need a bench player that can play that position. His affordable $4M owed to him for next year and it only essentially being a one-year pact with him would be something many teams may be intrigued with. His overall skill set could be a good fit for some teams, maybe much more than the Pirates. Now, I do not think the Pirates would get anything of real significance for John Jaso, so maybe keeping him might bring more value. But again, trading Jaso would free up some money for the Pirates to hopefully spend elsewhere.
I do not think both will be dealt, but one of them being dealt might go under a lot of consideration this winter. If Huntington gets calls on either, he would be dumb not to listen and consider a deal if the right one comes along. With the Pirates limited payroll and a bevy of options that can fill in as bench options, I believe trading one of them might actually be a good idea for the team if it gives them the needed financial means to help them fix the bigger needs that the club has.
Monday, November 28, 2016
Wednesday, November 16, 2016
Could the Pirates trade Jeff Locke?
When sifting through the potential Pirates' roster of 2017, one guy that seems to not be thought about is lefty Jeff Locke. I can certainly see why people aren't thinking about him. His 5.44 ERA and demotion to the bullpen puts him in a category where he stands a good chance of not being on the roster this upcoming season. While most people are automatically thinking that he will be non-tendered, I think a different fate is very possible for the Pirates lefty.
As has been well stated, the pitching market is very thin. I mean, Charlie Morton of all pitchers got a 2 year, $14 million deal. If that doesn't exemplify this pitching market, nothing will. Because of the thinness of the market, a lot of teams will look to fill their rotations through trading. Some teams will look to get top arms while others will be looking for filler arms. The teams that are looking for a filler arm and don't want to overpay for a free agent pitching may look towards "change of scenery" candidates. Jeff Locke is a very good example of one of those arms.
I think there may be teams that bite on Jeff Locke as a change of scenery candidate, and there is no reason for teams not to. Jeff Locke is a former All-Star, he is a lefty, and has shown previously that he is able to hold down a rotation spot effectively. On top of all this, Jeff Locke would also be super cheap, as he will be worth around $4-4.5 million in arbitration this offseason and may even settle for less given his 2016 performance. This is extremely cheap when considering that much money won't pay for anything substantial in this pitching market.
Given the nature of the starting pitching market, Jeff Locke may be a more attractive target for teams than he normally would be. I do not think teams would mind taking a chance on him to bounce back on a new team with how cheap he would cost financially. It would signify a low risk/high reward move for the acquiring team.
I do not believe Jeff Locke would fetch a big return by any stretch. Probably just a filler prospect or two, but it would relieve the Pirates from having to make a tough call on whether to tender him or not. Also, I think Jeff Locke has a better shot at succeeding somewhere else than with the Pirates. Whether the Pirates will find a trade partner or not for Locke's services is a total toss up, but if they do, I would have to believe that Neal Huntington would not hesitate to try to put that deal together.
As has been well stated, the pitching market is very thin. I mean, Charlie Morton of all pitchers got a 2 year, $14 million deal. If that doesn't exemplify this pitching market, nothing will. Because of the thinness of the market, a lot of teams will look to fill their rotations through trading. Some teams will look to get top arms while others will be looking for filler arms. The teams that are looking for a filler arm and don't want to overpay for a free agent pitching may look towards "change of scenery" candidates. Jeff Locke is a very good example of one of those arms.
I think there may be teams that bite on Jeff Locke as a change of scenery candidate, and there is no reason for teams not to. Jeff Locke is a former All-Star, he is a lefty, and has shown previously that he is able to hold down a rotation spot effectively. On top of all this, Jeff Locke would also be super cheap, as he will be worth around $4-4.5 million in arbitration this offseason and may even settle for less given his 2016 performance. This is extremely cheap when considering that much money won't pay for anything substantial in this pitching market.
Given the nature of the starting pitching market, Jeff Locke may be a more attractive target for teams than he normally would be. I do not think teams would mind taking a chance on him to bounce back on a new team with how cheap he would cost financially. It would signify a low risk/high reward move for the acquiring team.
I do not believe Jeff Locke would fetch a big return by any stretch. Probably just a filler prospect or two, but it would relieve the Pirates from having to make a tough call on whether to tender him or not. Also, I think Jeff Locke has a better shot at succeeding somewhere else than with the Pirates. Whether the Pirates will find a trade partner or not for Locke's services is a total toss up, but if they do, I would have to believe that Neal Huntington would not hesitate to try to put that deal together.
Tuesday, November 15, 2016
Could a Sean Rodriguez signing signal a shake-up coming for the Pirates?
In a report that confirmed what we already figured, Chris Cotillo reported that the Pirates are in on Sean Rodriguez. Not a shocking move considering he's versatile and handled the bat extremely well in 2016. However, many people think that Sean Rodriguez will earn a starting role at a position, similar to what the Pirates did with Harrison. I imagine any other suitor for Rodriguez could give him an opportunity to start everyday. As of now, the Pirates lineup is jammed, but what if I told you that the Pirates signing Rodriguez could be a prelude to bigger moves later on? Well, you will be forced to stay here to find out the answer, so you might as well keep going now that you are this far.
When I see a Sean Rodriguez signing as it pertains to an everyday role for the Pirates, I see two positions possible. These positions being 2nd base and right field. I am going to start by looking at 2nd base.
As I've done a ton of, I have looked at potential 2nd base upgrades for Harrison. I am firmly in the camp that thinks an upgrade at this position needs to be addressed. But maybe the upgrade is in front of us without us knowing it. Sean Rodriguez could very well present an upgrade if he rides momentum from 2016 into next season, which is no guarantee. Also, Sean Rodriguez is older and seemingly not a player in his prime. And replacing an expensive utility player (Harrison) by overpaying for another (Rodriguez) to try to be a good everyday player is a little ludicrous. Though it is certainly possible this happens, especially if it's a shorter 2-3 year pact with Rodriguez that is cheaper than what Harrison is getting and would give them a chance to get Harrison off the books if they so choose.
The others plsce he could fit is right field, but some tweaks would need to be made. Now, the Pirates are already highly considering moving Polanco to left and Marte to center (and Cutch to right). These moves can be done with or without McCutchen. If the Pirates sign Rodriguez and deal McCutchen in a massive trade, Rodriguez could play RF until Meadows is ready. Rodriguez would at least be a stable bat to fit in there until Meadows is ready. However, I think this move only works on another 1-year deal for Rodriguez because he would have a very reduced role once Meadows is ready. This idea would be very creative and take much more thinking and careful planning to work than the idea of him replacing Harrison.
I don't see Rodriguez coming to the Pirates. I would be shocked if he did. However, if he does, then I seriously do think it'd be a prelude move for something more major to happen later in the offseason. Watch out if Rodriguez comes back to the Pirates because it could pave the Pirates offseason path.
When I see a Sean Rodriguez signing as it pertains to an everyday role for the Pirates, I see two positions possible. These positions being 2nd base and right field. I am going to start by looking at 2nd base.
As I've done a ton of, I have looked at potential 2nd base upgrades for Harrison. I am firmly in the camp that thinks an upgrade at this position needs to be addressed. But maybe the upgrade is in front of us without us knowing it. Sean Rodriguez could very well present an upgrade if he rides momentum from 2016 into next season, which is no guarantee. Also, Sean Rodriguez is older and seemingly not a player in his prime. And replacing an expensive utility player (Harrison) by overpaying for another (Rodriguez) to try to be a good everyday player is a little ludicrous. Though it is certainly possible this happens, especially if it's a shorter 2-3 year pact with Rodriguez that is cheaper than what Harrison is getting and would give them a chance to get Harrison off the books if they so choose.
The others plsce he could fit is right field, but some tweaks would need to be made. Now, the Pirates are already highly considering moving Polanco to left and Marte to center (and Cutch to right). These moves can be done with or without McCutchen. If the Pirates sign Rodriguez and deal McCutchen in a massive trade, Rodriguez could play RF until Meadows is ready. Rodriguez would at least be a stable bat to fit in there until Meadows is ready. However, I think this move only works on another 1-year deal for Rodriguez because he would have a very reduced role once Meadows is ready. This idea would be very creative and take much more thinking and careful planning to work than the idea of him replacing Harrison.
I don't see Rodriguez coming to the Pirates. I would be shocked if he did. However, if he does, then I seriously do think it'd be a prelude move for something more major to happen later in the offseason. Watch out if Rodriguez comes back to the Pirates because it could pave the Pirates offseason path.
Monday, November 14, 2016
One more 2nd base target for the Pirates
I recently looked at potential upgrades that the Pirates could look at regarding 2nd base. Well, hours after that, one of the targets was dealt. Howie Kendrick was traded to Philadelphia. This move, however, opened up another intriguing 2nd base target in Cesar Hernandez. Let's look if he's a candidate to replace Harrison at that position.
Looking at Hernandez' stats, nothing stands out in terms of his power or overall production. However, in 2016, he hit close to .300 with an OBP in the upper-.300s in 155 games and over 600 plate appearances. Harrison, on the other hand, hit below .290 with an OBP at a very low .311 considering what his batting average was. Granted, Harrison played less games and got more RBIs and his overall production might have been better had he played the same amount of games Hernandez did. Although, looking at Harrison over the last couple of seasons, he seems to be leveling out. When I look at Hernandez, I see a young player that is already just as good, if not better, than Harrison and is still coming into his own and may get better.
There is also the matter of money, which we know is very important to the Pirates. Firstly, let's look at Harrison. He has a contract that will see him make increasing amount of money every year until at least 2019 with two team options set at $10.5M and at $11.5M, when he's 31 and 32 years old. Even at age 30, he will be set to make $10.25M. For a guy like Harrison, this is starting to look like a severe overpay. Harrison was paid for an outlier year and past production, and it is obvious now.
For Hernandez, he would get paid as he goes and for production year-by-year as he is a super 2 player that isn't eligible for free agency until 2021. Even as a super 2 player, Hernandez would need to be other-worldly to get paid like Harrison is, and if he is good enough to earn it in arbitration, then he's good enough to earn it and should be kept.
Overall, I see two players that give similar production but one has seemed to level out while one looks like he could break out. Even if Hernandez doesn't break out, he'd be a cheaper option than Harrison for similar production.
However, for this to even work, the Pirates would need to find a taker for Josh Harrison and with his contract consistently looking worse, they'd be hard-pressed to find a taker. Then, they would have to work with the Phillies to get them to give up on a young, controllable, affordable option that they can very easily keep. Whether an incremental upgrade such as this is even worth doing all that is the big question.
Looking at Hernandez' stats, nothing stands out in terms of his power or overall production. However, in 2016, he hit close to .300 with an OBP in the upper-.300s in 155 games and over 600 plate appearances. Harrison, on the other hand, hit below .290 with an OBP at a very low .311 considering what his batting average was. Granted, Harrison played less games and got more RBIs and his overall production might have been better had he played the same amount of games Hernandez did. Although, looking at Harrison over the last couple of seasons, he seems to be leveling out. When I look at Hernandez, I see a young player that is already just as good, if not better, than Harrison and is still coming into his own and may get better.
There is also the matter of money, which we know is very important to the Pirates. Firstly, let's look at Harrison. He has a contract that will see him make increasing amount of money every year until at least 2019 with two team options set at $10.5M and at $11.5M, when he's 31 and 32 years old. Even at age 30, he will be set to make $10.25M. For a guy like Harrison, this is starting to look like a severe overpay. Harrison was paid for an outlier year and past production, and it is obvious now.
For Hernandez, he would get paid as he goes and for production year-by-year as he is a super 2 player that isn't eligible for free agency until 2021. Even as a super 2 player, Hernandez would need to be other-worldly to get paid like Harrison is, and if he is good enough to earn it in arbitration, then he's good enough to earn it and should be kept.
Overall, I see two players that give similar production but one has seemed to level out while one looks like he could break out. Even if Hernandez doesn't break out, he'd be a cheaper option than Harrison for similar production.
However, for this to even work, the Pirates would need to find a taker for Josh Harrison and with his contract consistently looking worse, they'd be hard-pressed to find a taker. Then, they would have to work with the Phillies to get them to give up on a young, controllable, affordable option that they can very easily keep. Whether an incremental upgrade such as this is even worth doing all that is the big question.
Friday, November 11, 2016
Pirates trade target profile: 2nd base Upgrades
Whether or not the Pirates need an upgrade at the 2nd base position has been the subject of many debates amongst the fan base recently. Some people think the Pirates should explore upgrading that position. Others think the Pirates will be just fine with Harrison, Frazier, or even potentially Alen Hanson. No matter which side of the fence you are on, the idea of upgrading at 2nd base is a very real notion that the front office might look into. Today, I am going to look into three 2nd basemen that the Pirates could potentially look at if they wish to upgrade their lineup at that position.
1) Logan Forsythe- Forsythe has enjoyed some great success since going to the Tampa Bay Rays from the San Diego Padres. He is just coming off a year where he hit 20 homers in 127 games. He is also signed through next year with an option. Overall, I think Forsythe would be a sneaky good pickup for the Pirates if they were able to get the Rays to part with him. His power and ability to get on base would be very much welcomed in the lineup.
2) Howie Kendrick- Howie Kendrick isn't happy about his role with the Dodgers. He has openly been wanting to be traded, and I believe the Dodgers will make it happen. Kendrick has never been a thumper at the plate, but he would be an affordable, veteran leader for the Pirates. However, I don't feel he's a significant enough upgrade to make a huge difference in the lineup. He'd barely be an upgrade.
3) Brian Dozier- Even the thought of getting Brian Dozier gets me and many others super excited. Dozier has quickly become one of the best 2nd basemen in the MLB but is stuck with the Twins team that is in chaos at the moment. It wouldn't be a shock to see the Twins trade Dozier if they can get a big-time return back. Dozier had an insane season for the lowly Twins, hitting 42 HRs (keep in mind he plays most of his games in pitcher friendly Target Field) with 99 RBIs. The guy is just skilled all around. Combined this with the fact that he isn't a free agent until after 2018, he would be a welcomed addition into the middle of most any lineup. I bet the Pirates would love to have him, but the cost to acquire him would likely be beyond the range that the Pirates would like to go.
4) Ian Kinsler: Moving to the guy that I believe would be the best fit for the Pirates lineup. Ian Kinsler, 34, is still one of the most underrated hitters in all of baseball. Even at 34, he hit close to .300 with an OBP of close to .350 and 28 homers and 83 RBIs. The guy can easily still get it done with a unique skill set of having power and ability to reach base. I believe this would work very well towards the top of the Pirates lineup, and I feel the fit would be perfect. I also feel that it may be a perfect storm for the Pirates to get him. The Tigers are looking to shed payroll and could trade Kinsler to relieve themselves of money constrictions. If the Pirates would be okay taking some money on for Kinsler ($11M in 2017), I think they could get him at a reasonable acquisition cost that would not cripple them while adding a nice bat into the mix. Kinsler would also be around at least through 2017 with a team option for 2018, worth $12M, awaiting, which is also affordable. His relative affordability, his vast experience, and his nice skill set would make him a great pickup for the Pirates. I think exploring a deal like this would be a good idea if they are looking at upgrading the lineup and the 2nd base position.
The Pirates may or may not upgrade at 2nd base this offseason. At the moment, it's not a priority for the team, but it's certainly worth leaving the possibility on the backburner. If the Pirates want to upgrade the lineup, 2nd base is the biggest hole that would be subject to a change here. I'm not saying it will happen, but there is a chance. The offseason is normally full of twists and turns, and I wouldn't be shocked if the Pirates made a move for a second baseman out of the blue.
1) Logan Forsythe- Forsythe has enjoyed some great success since going to the Tampa Bay Rays from the San Diego Padres. He is just coming off a year where he hit 20 homers in 127 games. He is also signed through next year with an option. Overall, I think Forsythe would be a sneaky good pickup for the Pirates if they were able to get the Rays to part with him. His power and ability to get on base would be very much welcomed in the lineup.
2) Howie Kendrick- Howie Kendrick isn't happy about his role with the Dodgers. He has openly been wanting to be traded, and I believe the Dodgers will make it happen. Kendrick has never been a thumper at the plate, but he would be an affordable, veteran leader for the Pirates. However, I don't feel he's a significant enough upgrade to make a huge difference in the lineup. He'd barely be an upgrade.
3) Brian Dozier- Even the thought of getting Brian Dozier gets me and many others super excited. Dozier has quickly become one of the best 2nd basemen in the MLB but is stuck with the Twins team that is in chaos at the moment. It wouldn't be a shock to see the Twins trade Dozier if they can get a big-time return back. Dozier had an insane season for the lowly Twins, hitting 42 HRs (keep in mind he plays most of his games in pitcher friendly Target Field) with 99 RBIs. The guy is just skilled all around. Combined this with the fact that he isn't a free agent until after 2018, he would be a welcomed addition into the middle of most any lineup. I bet the Pirates would love to have him, but the cost to acquire him would likely be beyond the range that the Pirates would like to go.
4) Ian Kinsler: Moving to the guy that I believe would be the best fit for the Pirates lineup. Ian Kinsler, 34, is still one of the most underrated hitters in all of baseball. Even at 34, he hit close to .300 with an OBP of close to .350 and 28 homers and 83 RBIs. The guy can easily still get it done with a unique skill set of having power and ability to reach base. I believe this would work very well towards the top of the Pirates lineup, and I feel the fit would be perfect. I also feel that it may be a perfect storm for the Pirates to get him. The Tigers are looking to shed payroll and could trade Kinsler to relieve themselves of money constrictions. If the Pirates would be okay taking some money on for Kinsler ($11M in 2017), I think they could get him at a reasonable acquisition cost that would not cripple them while adding a nice bat into the mix. Kinsler would also be around at least through 2017 with a team option for 2018, worth $12M, awaiting, which is also affordable. His relative affordability, his vast experience, and his nice skill set would make him a great pickup for the Pirates. I think exploring a deal like this would be a good idea if they are looking at upgrading the lineup and the 2nd base position.
The Pirates may or may not upgrade at 2nd base this offseason. At the moment, it's not a priority for the team, but it's certainly worth leaving the possibility on the backburner. If the Pirates want to upgrade the lineup, 2nd base is the biggest hole that would be subject to a change here. I'm not saying it will happen, but there is a chance. The offseason is normally full of twists and turns, and I wouldn't be shocked if the Pirates made a move for a second baseman out of the blue.
Thursday, November 10, 2016
Finding a trade fit for Andrew McCutchen
Not many Pirates fans want to hear the chatter of a possible trade of franchise face Andrew McCutchen. However, as we go along, we may need to start thinking about Pirates' fan life without Andrew McCutchen. The possibility of a trade of this magnitude has never been more likely than it stands here in the 2016 offseason. So, with this possibility out there for real, let's look at possible trade partners that'd work for the Pirates in this potential trade.
1) White Sox- This one isn't likely, in my opinion. There is a growing sense that the White Sox are going to rebuild instead of add. However, the thought of McCutchen to go along with Chris Sale, Jose Abreu, and Adam Eaton as cornerstone players is a doozy. Now, some might wonder why I left Quintana out of this mix. The answer is simple; He would be the most likely target for the Pirates if they are to look at the White Sox or vice versa. A Quintana and McCutchen swap with some other pieces involved sounds like it could be a good deal for both teams. However, again, I don't think the White Sox would blow it up AND get McCutchen.
2) Rays- Rays deal with similar things the White Sox do. They are lacking a sense of direction. However, the Rays have made it clear that they are rebuilding. However, they want to contend ASAP, and their trades have helped with that. I think they could take the next step soon, and what better way to jumpstart it than getting McCutchen. He'd immediately be a difference maker on a fringe team that needs a leader, and it's possible an exciting trade like this puts people in the seats. I too think the Rays would need to center a package around pitching, either Archer or Odorizzi would be the likely targets because Smiley isn't a deal breaker and Blake Snell is not going anywhere.
3) Indians- The Indians clearly have an outfield problem. They will be losing Crisp and possibly Davis this offseason. However, Brantley will be back, but his return will come with an asterisk. That leaves Naquin and some fringe outfielders. Also, the Indians might lose impact bat Mike Napoli. The formula fits for a McCutchen trade here. Indians need a big bat, likely in the OF, and the Pirates have it. Pirates need young affordable pitching, and the Indians have it. I could see this trade actually happening with centerpieces of the deal revolving around McCutchen and Carassco or Salazar. The deal fits more and more as you think about it. Also, I would have added piece of mind knowing that McCutchen is being left in the hands of Terry Francona.
4) Astros- This one is a long shot by all meanings of it. However, the Astros want an impact bat or two to deepen their lineup. This deal might not work because both teams would need to get super creative as the fit isn't present initially. I just think a trade like this would get so creative, it'd start feeling uncomfortable for both sides.
5) Blue Jays- Now, at first you may not see the Blue Jays as needing a guy like McCutchen, but you'd be wrong. Blue Jays are likely losing at least two, if not all three, of Michael Saunders, Jose Bautista, and Edwin Encarnacion. That is 2 OFs, a DH, and overall three big bats. Blue Jays will need to replace this if they want to continue rolling. McCutchen could help them. However, the Blue Jays killed their farm system in trades for Tulowitzki and Price and are unlikely to part with Aaron Sanchez to acquire a bat. This is another case of a team needing to get creative to make a deal or giving up something they are uncomfortable with. I don't see it happening.
6) Nationals- The Nationals and Pirates had a deal in the works surrounding McCutchen at the trade deadline but too many moving parts made it a difficult trade deadline deal to manage. Could the Nationals pick talks back up about McCutchen? I mean, that's very possible considering that the Nationals seem to always need OF and are in need of another bat to get them over the top. The Nationals have the pitching depth to get such a deal done too. Guys like Lucas Giolito and Reynaldo Lopez at the top of the list I'd imagine. The Nationals also have an array of other young talent that could be enticing. The Nationals certainly have the pieces to get a deal done, but whether they are willing to part with such pieces is the real question.
The fact of the matter is that Andrew McCutchen being traded is a real possibility but nowhere near a probability. I'd classify him being traded as a long shot still. Teams are going to line up to ask about him, but unless an offer the Pirates can't refuse pops up, I would imagine he sticks around. In any case, the Pirates are in for an interesting offseason regarding their face of the franchise.
1) White Sox- This one isn't likely, in my opinion. There is a growing sense that the White Sox are going to rebuild instead of add. However, the thought of McCutchen to go along with Chris Sale, Jose Abreu, and Adam Eaton as cornerstone players is a doozy. Now, some might wonder why I left Quintana out of this mix. The answer is simple; He would be the most likely target for the Pirates if they are to look at the White Sox or vice versa. A Quintana and McCutchen swap with some other pieces involved sounds like it could be a good deal for both teams. However, again, I don't think the White Sox would blow it up AND get McCutchen.
2) Rays- Rays deal with similar things the White Sox do. They are lacking a sense of direction. However, the Rays have made it clear that they are rebuilding. However, they want to contend ASAP, and their trades have helped with that. I think they could take the next step soon, and what better way to jumpstart it than getting McCutchen. He'd immediately be a difference maker on a fringe team that needs a leader, and it's possible an exciting trade like this puts people in the seats. I too think the Rays would need to center a package around pitching, either Archer or Odorizzi would be the likely targets because Smiley isn't a deal breaker and Blake Snell is not going anywhere.
3) Indians- The Indians clearly have an outfield problem. They will be losing Crisp and possibly Davis this offseason. However, Brantley will be back, but his return will come with an asterisk. That leaves Naquin and some fringe outfielders. Also, the Indians might lose impact bat Mike Napoli. The formula fits for a McCutchen trade here. Indians need a big bat, likely in the OF, and the Pirates have it. Pirates need young affordable pitching, and the Indians have it. I could see this trade actually happening with centerpieces of the deal revolving around McCutchen and Carassco or Salazar. The deal fits more and more as you think about it. Also, I would have added piece of mind knowing that McCutchen is being left in the hands of Terry Francona.
4) Astros- This one is a long shot by all meanings of it. However, the Astros want an impact bat or two to deepen their lineup. This deal might not work because both teams would need to get super creative as the fit isn't present initially. I just think a trade like this would get so creative, it'd start feeling uncomfortable for both sides.
5) Blue Jays- Now, at first you may not see the Blue Jays as needing a guy like McCutchen, but you'd be wrong. Blue Jays are likely losing at least two, if not all three, of Michael Saunders, Jose Bautista, and Edwin Encarnacion. That is 2 OFs, a DH, and overall three big bats. Blue Jays will need to replace this if they want to continue rolling. McCutchen could help them. However, the Blue Jays killed their farm system in trades for Tulowitzki and Price and are unlikely to part with Aaron Sanchez to acquire a bat. This is another case of a team needing to get creative to make a deal or giving up something they are uncomfortable with. I don't see it happening.
6) Nationals- The Nationals and Pirates had a deal in the works surrounding McCutchen at the trade deadline but too many moving parts made it a difficult trade deadline deal to manage. Could the Nationals pick talks back up about McCutchen? I mean, that's very possible considering that the Nationals seem to always need OF and are in need of another bat to get them over the top. The Nationals have the pitching depth to get such a deal done too. Guys like Lucas Giolito and Reynaldo Lopez at the top of the list I'd imagine. The Nationals also have an array of other young talent that could be enticing. The Nationals certainly have the pieces to get a deal done, but whether they are willing to part with such pieces is the real question.
The fact of the matter is that Andrew McCutchen being traded is a real possibility but nowhere near a probability. I'd classify him being traded as a long shot still. Teams are going to line up to ask about him, but unless an offer the Pirates can't refuse pops up, I would imagine he sticks around. In any case, the Pirates are in for an interesting offseason regarding their face of the franchise.
Thursday, November 3, 2016
Pirates free agent target profile: Greg Holland
Former Kansas City Royals star closer Greg Holland is set to have a showcase here very soon after missing a little over a year. For Holland, this showcase is very important as he tries to prove to MLB teams that he still has what it takes to pitch in the MLB. If he looks good, I can imagine teams flocking around for his services. So today, I will discuss whether or not the Pirates could potentially be one of those teams.
Firstly, let's look at Greg Holland's track record. The former closer has had some very stellar years and has racked up some elite numbers, pitching to a 2.42 ERA and 145 saves, which includes his two All-Star years in 2013 and 2014 where he racked up 47 and 46 saves respectively. All these numbers really pop off the page. However, there is always mystery surrounding any pitcher that comes back after missing a whole year and then some.
Next, what makes Holland such an intriguing pick-up is that he would likely come cheaper than the other top relievers on the market. I could see a Neftali Feliz-type deal from last offseason for the right-hander. Despite missing all the time that he did, I believe a deal like I just mentioned could potentially be a bargain. That kind of deal would also ensure that the risk taken on in it isn't too large, and we all know that the Pirates can't afford to miss with big deals.
In the end, a relatively cheap one-year deal for Holland would be a good move for the Pirates, in my opinion. Holland has the stuff to bounce back from his injury and really give a team what they need. For the Pirates, a 7th/8th inning righty to balance out Bastardo, Rivero, and Watson (all lefties) is just what the Pirates need in the bullpen, and Holland could certainly provide it. Also, I just feel that Holland seems like the kind of reliever the Pirates would pick up. Former big-time closer with a great arm that needs a bounce back year and will come cheaper because of it. Sounds a lot like Feliz, granted different circumstances, but the comparison still fits.
If the Pirates can land Holland, I think the bullpen would have a much nicer look to it! Going Bastardo, Rivero, Holland, and Watson in the bullpen would give the Pirates a good chance to win games when leading after 5 or 6 innings, which has become big in the MLB. So, I would welcome a signing of Greg Holland into the black and gold family (or should I say Famalee). In fact, Holland might be at the top, or at least towards the top, of the list of free agent relievers I would like to see the Pirates get. I believe he'd fit right into a bullpen that is full of lefties and needs a righty like Holland to fill the need they have there.
Firstly, let's look at Greg Holland's track record. The former closer has had some very stellar years and has racked up some elite numbers, pitching to a 2.42 ERA and 145 saves, which includes his two All-Star years in 2013 and 2014 where he racked up 47 and 46 saves respectively. All these numbers really pop off the page. However, there is always mystery surrounding any pitcher that comes back after missing a whole year and then some.
Next, what makes Holland such an intriguing pick-up is that he would likely come cheaper than the other top relievers on the market. I could see a Neftali Feliz-type deal from last offseason for the right-hander. Despite missing all the time that he did, I believe a deal like I just mentioned could potentially be a bargain. That kind of deal would also ensure that the risk taken on in it isn't too large, and we all know that the Pirates can't afford to miss with big deals.
In the end, a relatively cheap one-year deal for Holland would be a good move for the Pirates, in my opinion. Holland has the stuff to bounce back from his injury and really give a team what they need. For the Pirates, a 7th/8th inning righty to balance out Bastardo, Rivero, and Watson (all lefties) is just what the Pirates need in the bullpen, and Holland could certainly provide it. Also, I just feel that Holland seems like the kind of reliever the Pirates would pick up. Former big-time closer with a great arm that needs a bounce back year and will come cheaper because of it. Sounds a lot like Feliz, granted different circumstances, but the comparison still fits.
If the Pirates can land Holland, I think the bullpen would have a much nicer look to it! Going Bastardo, Rivero, Holland, and Watson in the bullpen would give the Pirates a good chance to win games when leading after 5 or 6 innings, which has become big in the MLB. So, I would welcome a signing of Greg Holland into the black and gold family (or should I say Famalee). In fact, Holland might be at the top, or at least towards the top, of the list of free agent relievers I would like to see the Pirates get. I believe he'd fit right into a bullpen that is full of lefties and needs a righty like Holland to fill the need they have there.
Wednesday, November 2, 2016
Pirates trade candidate profile: Derek Holland
It was reported a couple of nights ago that the Rangers were actively pursuing a split with Derek Holland. It makes sense since the former highly-touted lefty has not been able to get it right recently. Between injuries and ineffectiveness, Derek Holland has been a shell of his former self. And with an expensive option coming the Rangers way for his services in 2017 that will need accepted or declined very shortly after the World Series, the Rangers are trying desperately to deal him before then. In light of this news, I figured it would be a good time to check out whether he would be a guy the Pirates should consider trading for.
Firstly, the one thing that stands out is he is just the kind of pitcher the Pirates like. He is a lefty that has had some recent success. The Pirates have had successful reclamations for guys like that. Examples include Rodriguez, Liriano, Happ, and others. Derek Holland is another potential example for the Pirates. There is very clear potential for Derek Holland to bounce back with the Pirates under the watchful eye of Ray Searage.
The other thing is that he's a lefty, and as has been iterated many times, the Pirates starting rotation is in need of a lefty starter to go along with the plethora of right-handers. The only question would be whether he is a stable lefty. They've seen what happens last year when the lefty they acquired isn't stable (Jon Niese). They don't want to make that mistake again. This means, the real question overall will end up being: "Is he a better option than Steven Brault". For Holland, the upside says yes, but the downside is a massive no.
Through all of this, Holland is an affordable target for anyone, including the Pirates. He's very affordable in money and likely acquisition cost, especially considering the Rangers are desperate to move on from him. A team might very well jump the market before the Rangers likely decline his option just to avoid the chance of him making more in a weak starting pitching free agent market, and so that they wouldn't need to compete in free agency for him. Because of the affordability and the market for him, I could certainly see the Pirates looking into a guy like Derek Holland to fill-in the rotation spot.
Now, do I see it coming into fruition? Well, no. I really can't say anything is set in stone. The Pirates always seem to pick up players that nobody even thought about. But, if the market is good for his services, the Pirates certainly will do their due dillegence, especially considering their constant constraints to get talent onto their MLB roster. Therefore, if Holland can be had at a good cost, it'd certainly be a do-able move.
Firstly, the one thing that stands out is he is just the kind of pitcher the Pirates like. He is a lefty that has had some recent success. The Pirates have had successful reclamations for guys like that. Examples include Rodriguez, Liriano, Happ, and others. Derek Holland is another potential example for the Pirates. There is very clear potential for Derek Holland to bounce back with the Pirates under the watchful eye of Ray Searage.
The other thing is that he's a lefty, and as has been iterated many times, the Pirates starting rotation is in need of a lefty starter to go along with the plethora of right-handers. The only question would be whether he is a stable lefty. They've seen what happens last year when the lefty they acquired isn't stable (Jon Niese). They don't want to make that mistake again. This means, the real question overall will end up being: "Is he a better option than Steven Brault". For Holland, the upside says yes, but the downside is a massive no.
Through all of this, Holland is an affordable target for anyone, including the Pirates. He's very affordable in money and likely acquisition cost, especially considering the Rangers are desperate to move on from him. A team might very well jump the market before the Rangers likely decline his option just to avoid the chance of him making more in a weak starting pitching free agent market, and so that they wouldn't need to compete in free agency for him. Because of the affordability and the market for him, I could certainly see the Pirates looking into a guy like Derek Holland to fill-in the rotation spot.
Now, do I see it coming into fruition? Well, no. I really can't say anything is set in stone. The Pirates always seem to pick up players that nobody even thought about. But, if the market is good for his services, the Pirates certainly will do their due dillegence, especially considering their constant constraints to get talent onto their MLB roster. Therefore, if Holland can be had at a good cost, it'd certainly be a do-able move.
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