Most Memorable Moments of 2010; Good and Bad

Well 2010 is coming to a close, the year in Pirates baseball had its ups and its downs. After losing a 105 games, there were definitely a lot of bad things that we all saw, but first lets see a few good things to remind us where the Pirates are going.


The Good:


3. Lasting Milledge's game winning catch: http://t.co/QNkcefp


2. Pirates sign top pick Taillon: http://t.co/TAi4Afj


1. Alvarez's walk-off homer: http://t.co/Xj3mI7A
 - But even more memorable, the call by Steve Blass:

The Bad:

3. Three words: I GOT IT! http://t.co/fAjeLZ6 and 3 days later

http://t.co/xzHVVHH

2. Who's on 1st? No wait, who's supposed to be on 3rd?: http://t.co/cTdYZ2r

1. Pirates lose big to the Brew crew; 20 - 0: http://t.co/jiBpcZI

Thanks to @chrissytinaaa for the Pic!

Some worth mentioning:


Garrett Jones starts off the year with 2 HR game: http://t.co/6BLlHcK

Ask my friend, I called this one happening!: http://t.co/zaTqeyN

Thanks to everyone for stopping by and reading my posts from time to time. I've been only doing this for a little over a month, and have enjoyed all of it. This coming season there will be a lot more that I will be adding to my posts; highlights, pictures and am hoping to pull off an interview or two.


Unless there is another Pirates transaction in the next two days, I want to wish everyone a Happy New Year. Be safe and enjoy the good times.

Circle Of Life: As A Small Market Ball Player

Major League Baseball has numbers of problems, from missed calls to the lack of full usefulness of instant replay. The largest problem that comes to mind is the salary cap, or lack there of. After the 1994 strike, a salary cap was proposed, but was not agreed upon by the players union and the New York Yankees partnership. An alternate to the salary cap was the Luxury Tax, or Competitive Tax.


The Luxury Tax is setup for the small market teams to receive stipends, based on the prior years payroll, from a “community pot,” is funded by the large market teams with payrolls exceeding $100M. The large market teams have the ability to pay more than $100M, have a percentage, of the amount spent over that mark, paid into the “community pot,” those amounts are also determined by the previous years payroll. The small market teams have been given the opportunity, with the yearly financial infusions, to be able to spend more money on the draft, offer contract extensions and/or sign big name free agent players.


The Major League Amateur Draft is the best opportunity for teams to find the most talented players, at the cheapest price. The Pirates, for example, spend nearly 12M on the 2010 draft, for players that won’t appear in the majors for several years. With good scouting and the proper contact, a team can have a player under contract for a good portion of his professional career. Over the last two seasons, the Pirates have brought up Neil Walker(‘04 Draft), Andrew McCutchen (‘05 Draft), and Pedro Alvarez (‘07 Draft), whom they scouted and drafted, and were able to make in immediate impact, on the major league squad.

Jay Bruce

With Walker, McCutchen, and Alvarez, along with Jose Tabata, who was acquired through a trade while in the minors, being the core of the team, it is important to keep them together as long as possible. The best way for that to happen is with a contract extension. There has been a lot of talk about extending McCutchen, while they still can, due to the recent extension of Reds OH Jay Bruce, who was just given, up to, $64M until 2017. McCutchen, who was designated a “Super 2,” could avoid arbitration with a contact extension, and is currently under contract until the end of 2015. Without being able to extend players contacts, small market teams will lose their best players to free agency, I.E. Carl Crawford.

Carl Crawford

The Tampa Bay Rays, this off season, were unable to resign Carl Crawford, after becoming a free agent. Crawford, who signed a 7yr/$142M contract with the Boston Red Sox, was never extended with the Rays. While small market teams lose  their best players, who eventually sign for outrageous amounts of money, that small market cannot afford, end up with teams like the Yankees, Red Sox or Dodgers. When teams are unable to extend players contracts, and it is inevitable that players will leave, via free agency, they have no choice by to trade the fan favorites.


The Pirates, in the past, have lost several players to free agency, my prime example is Barry Bonds. Where would the organization have been, during the mid-90’s, if he had been signed to an extension, during the Leyland Era, or who could they have gotten, in return, if he were traded? The Pirates have made numerous trades, in the past, that have been far from fan friendly; I.E. Aramis Ramirez, Jason Bay, Nate McClouth, Jack Wilson, and Freddy Sanchez, just to name a few. While not all trades gave the best return, most of the recent trades have shown great return with Jose Tabata, Ross Ohlendorf, Joel Hanrahan and Gorkys Hernandez.


It is inevitable that the Pirates are going to lose a, McCutchen, an Alvarez, or a Tabata, to a trade or free agency. The Pirates are THE small market team that has been plagued with 18 years of losing, and with the proper front office management, the streak will end soon. They have, and will always be a stepping stone for players, to move on to other teams. Fans just have to maintain focus, on the bigger picture, and hope that if a player will be leaving via free agency, that he will be traded, in hopes of getting prospects in return. The future, of the organization, will always be in hands of the prospects, in the farm system.


Remember, its always better to get something in return, than get nothing at all.

Pirates Sign IF Garrett Atkins

The Pirates, today, signed infielder Garrett Atkins, to a minor league deal, with an invite to spring training. Atkins, a 1997 10th round pick of the New York Mets, didn't sign, and once again drafted in 2000, by the Colorado Rockies, in the 5th round. In 2005, he finished 4th for Rookie of the Year honors, and with a break out year, in 2006, was 15th in voting, for the NL MVP.

In 2009, Atkins was moved over to first base, filling in for the injured Todd Helton, and found himself struggling at the plate, after the regular season he was non-tendered. He signed a one year deal with the Orioles, for the 2010 season, and found himself being DFA'd and later released in early July.


With his reuniting with Clint Hurdle, this could possibly bring a more upside to Atkins resent woes, as he was a pivotal part of the Rockies 2007 World Series run. If he would be able to reproduce, anywhere near his, 2006 season (.329 BA/.965 OPS), he may very well have a chance to becoming an everyday player, depending on other productions.


Career Stats: .285 BA/.350 OBP/.449 SLG/.799 OPS

Pirates Acquire Thompson Off of Waivers; Cut Ledezma

The Pirates acquired LHP Aaron Thompson, off of waivers, from the Washington Nationals. Thompson, a former first rounder, was drafted by the Florida Marlins in the 2005 Amateur Draft, spent most of the 2010 season with in AA Harrisburg, and later promoted to AAA Syracuse, appearing in only 1 game, posted a 5-13 record for the season. With this acquisition, the Pirates were forced to make a roster move, to open up a spot on the 40 man roster, and DFA'd Will Ledezma.

Aaron Thompson

Ledezma, signed to the Pirates prior to the 2010 season, appeared in 27 games, while posting 0-3 record, with a .686 ERA. His role, while with the Pirates, was a middle reliever, and was called upon frequently, after his call up. With Ledezma being designated for assignment, he can opt to become a free agent, after ten days, or accept his assignment and appear at Spring Training. Earlier in the off season, he signed a major league contract with the Pirates, and would seem likely to stick with the organization.


This move puzzles me. Statistically, Thompson has a lot to work on, while Ledezma is a veteran presence in the bullpen, and is reliable. Though Ledezma is no longer on the 40 Man Roster, still can appear in spring training, and work for a position in the bullpen, if he decides to accept his assignment, or isn't claimed off of waivers.

Pirates Acquire Wimberly For Kelly

Today, the Pittsburgh Pirates acquired IF/OF Corey Wimberly, from the Oakland Athletics, for RHP Ryan Kelly. Wimberly, a 6th Round Draft pick, in the 2005 Amateur Draft, was originally selected by the Colorado Rockies and later traded into the Athletics organization. Kelly, a 26th Round Draft pick, in the 2006 Amateur draft, has been in the Pirates organization his entire professional career.

The trade was made official by Wimberly (pictured top right), himself, by tweeting:

@Wimboslice3: just got traded to the pirates!!!!!!!!!

And later responding to a tweet:

 

@Wimboslice3:

@cbeezy813 i have no idea but david forth called me and told me they traded me to the pirates i didnt ask im pumped slice got new life lol

Wimberly, in his 5 years of professional ball, has posted, an impressive, 259 stolen bases, in 563 games. Defensively, he has appeared, in both, the outfield and infield, and has a career .951 fielding percentage. 

Kelly (pictured bottom right), in his 4 years of professional ball, has 6-7 record, with .474 career ERA. He spent the last three years in A ball, with the Spikes and Power, and was used as a middle reliever.

Neal has done it once again. By the books, this trade appears to be phenomenal. Wimberly will attend spring training, as a non-roster invitee. With his tremendous speed, he would be a wise option off of the bench for situational ball, and could find himself starting from time to time, if he were to make the roster.

Wimberly Career MiLB Stats: .302 BA/.373 OBP/.363 SLG/.736 OPS

Pirates Unable to Arbitrate Olsen or Correia?

It was reported by, Pirates.com/MLB.com's, Jenifer Longosch, that the Pirates will not be able to offer arbitration to Scott Olsen or Kevin Correia, if they were to become a Type A free agents.

A Type A free agent is designated, to those players that perform in the top 20 percent at their position, by the Elias Sports Bureau. Normally, if a team were to offer a Type A free agent arbitration and the player were and the player were to decline, and later sign with another team, the team signing the free agent would lose, depending on the previous season record, a 1st or 2nd round draft pick, for the upcoming years draft. The team that offered arbitration and later lost the player, would receive those draft picks, from the signing team, as a supplemental pick.

Scott Olsen (Top Picture), signed for one year and a club option for 2012, as Kevin Correia (Bottom Picture) signed for two years. If either were to perform to within that top 20 percent, at the position, they will in fact become, Type A free agents. The Pirates club option on Olsen, is already pre-set and wouldn't be affected for the beginning of the off season, after the 2011 season, as they would be able to declare their option without the threat of losing a draft pick. 

Type A free agents tend to receive a lot more lucrative contracts, as opposed to Type B and regular free agents. If Olsen and/or Correia were to perform well enough, to become a Type A, that would be an exceptional pickup for the Pirates, this off season. If they were to perform that well, they would be able to offer a contract extension, prior to the beginning of free agency, after the 2012 season. 

Financially, a small market team, the Pirates wouldn't be able to afford signing, or extending a contract, of a Type A free agent. If Olsen and/or Correia were to be designated, Type A, likely, in my opinion, would be traded for prospects in return. Correia, was designated a Type B player, would, statistically, have the better chance of being designated Type A. Teams a Type B free agent, after offering arbitration, does not receive a supplemental pick and the signing team does not lose a pick.

Pirates Re-Sign Yates

The Pittsburgh Pirates and RHP Tyler Yates have come to terms today, signing a minor league deal. Yates underwent Tommy John surgery in 2009, and missed the entire 2010 season. Originally 

joining the Pirates in 2008, via a trade, in his first season with the the team, he posted a 6-3 record while appearing in 72 games with a 4.66 ERA.


Given nearly two years of rehab, and the hope that Yates will return to his form, he would be a great addition, once again, to the bullpen as a middle reliever.
After the trade deadline, last season, the Pirates bullpen faltered, and any addition to it would be welcomed. There have yet to be any details released by the Pirates, though I would expect an invitation to Spring Training and a good chance of making the 40 or 25 man roster at some point this upcoming season.


The Pirates bullpen, at this point and at any point, needs to be a strong as possible. With the struggling starting rotation of 2010, and the upgrades with James McDonald and Kevin Correia, the rotation most certainly be stronger next year. Long/middle relievers are always important, with their ability to clean up a mess, or to at least stabilize, after a starters early departure. Once again, a great move today, made by the Pirates, with not only depth added, but quality.

Pirates Sign IF Josh Fields to Minor League Deal

It was announced today, that the Pittsburgh Pirates signed IF Josh Fields to a minor league deal, with an invite to Spring Training. Fields, a 5 year veteran, has been with the Chicago 

White Sox, and Kansas City Royals, was a 1st round pick by Chicago in 2004. Fields appeared in the Futures Game, in 2006, at PNC Park, and later being called up that same year. After the 2008 season, he underwent arthroscopic surgery on his knee, and started the 2009 at third base. He was sent to Kansas City at the end of the 2009 season, in a package deal, where he only appeared in 13 games in 2010.

With this being only a minor league deal, I see this as merely adding depth to the minor league system, much like the re-acquisition Brian Bixler was last year. Fields' stats, both offensively and defensively aren't that good. His past experience, puts him at first and third base's, with very little outfield experience. Everybody would like to see the best possible players coming out of the minors, but adding a player with experience is always pivotal to a maturing prospect. Overall, this is a decent acquisition, merely for the depth in Indianapolis.

Career Stats: .234 BA/.303 OBP/.421 SLG/.724 OPS

Pirates Pursuing Pavano?

In the midst of the controversial release, of financial papers, in September, Frank Coonelly, Pittsburgh Pirate team President, announced that they were going to be adding $10M-15M to the payroll for the 2011 season. With the Pirates non-tendering Delwyn Young, Lastings Milledge, Argenis Diaz and Brian Burres, certainly didn't free up much for the payroll. The free agent signings of Kevin Correia, Scott Olsen, Matt Diaz and Kyle Overbay, will add roughly $12M, with a possibility of increasing with performance, to the payroll and with Ronny Cedeno and Jeff Karstens agreeing to terms, the $15M increase is nearly all used up.


The Pirates goal, this off season, was to increase their defense at first base and short stop, the production out of right field, and better overall pitching. With the signing of Overbay and Diaz, it leaves short stop and pitching, though Olsen and Correia have been signed, pitching staff still could used a shot in the arm. Earlier today, John Perrotto, Editor-in-Chief of BaseballProspectus.com and columnist for the Beaver County Times, tweeted:

 @jperrotto: Keep hearing rumblings that the #Pirates might jump in on Carl Pavano.

Carl Pavano spent the last season and a half, with the Minnesota Twins, and racked up a record of 22-15 with a 3.97 ERA. Entering the 2011 season, he will be 35 years old and would be his 13th season. After a 2007 elbow strain, he opted to undergo Tommy John surgery, and made a fast recovery, while returning, for rehabilitation starts, in July of 200. Posting a record of 35-25, after coming off of the surgery, he was a key figure in the '09 & '10 playoff picture for the Twins. Now, a month into free agency, with Cliff Lee signed with Philadelphia, and Zack Greinke traded to Milwaukee, he finds himself the best arm available. Making $7M last year, and seeminly, back to his old form, he would seem to be due for around $8M-$9M next year and is probably looking for at least a 2 year deal.

If the "rumblings," John Perrotto heard, hold any value, signing Pavano, would certainly put the Pirates over the $15M payroll increase for the 2011 season. This would be an excellent pickup, but if it were to happen, and only if, his numbers would most likely not be duplicated, as the Pirates offensive struggles may still linger well into the 2011 season. An arm like his would, undoubtedly, make him the opening day starter and give the rotation that 'shot in the arm.'

These "rumblings" of Perrotto's are similar to the "whispers" of Jesse Behr, also of BaseballProspectus.com, who earlier this week tweeted rumors of a Doumit trade with Boston, are just rumors. Rumors are what drives the baseball off season, as stats drive the regular season. Until there is a significant amount of social media traffic, and Internet postings, about any rumors, the validity is very low, so don't read into too much. 

So why did I write this post? Because I miss baseball, so back off!

Donnie Veal re-Signed by Pirates

The Pittsburgh Pirates, today, re-signed Donnie Veal, who was non-tendered in November. Veal spent 2010 with the Indianapolis 

Indians, until he was sidelined with an arm injury, and had Tommy John Surgery, in June. The surgery takes a pitcher a little over a year to rehabilitate from, and, in most cases, the pitcher comes back throwing even stronger. 


It is unlikely that Veal will appear with the Pirates this upcoming season, though may make a late season return to Indy. He appeared in 19 games, in 2009, with the Pirates, and was used as a late inning reliever. By him signing, while still rehabilitating, may seem a little irresponsible to some, but with his ability, he will one day be a reliable relief pitcher. With no details on the signing, the Pirates have at least locked him into a minor league deal.

Doumit to Boston?

It was tweeted earlier, by Jesse Behr (@JJ_Behr) of www.baseballprospectus.com, that there are 'whispers' of a trade, sending C Ryan Doumit, to the Boston Red Sox, for SS Marco Scutaro. Scutaro, who signed with Boston in the off season prior to 2010, for 2yr/10.5M and a club option for 2012 worth $6M, would represent the upgrade at shortstop that the Pirates have been looking for the entire off season. Missing out on JJ Hardy, Jason Bartlett and Brendan Ryan, and the acquisition of Josh Rodriguez, still left a huge question mark, with the Pirates fan base, as to how they were going to handle position.


Ryan Doumits defensive skills, or lack there of, were the reason the Pirates acquired C Chris Snyder, from Arizona, during the 2010 season. Doumits return to the roster, after another stint on the DL and a rehab session, found him platooning in right field, with a few starts at first base, at which he played both horrendously. With the Pirates openly pursuing a trade, that involves Doumit leaving Pittsburgh, left them looking desperate, and most likely will be sending money along, to pay for his $5.1M for the 2011 season. Doumits contract, also has club options for 2012 & '13, worth $15.5M, though a decision for both years are to be made after the 2011 season.


The Boston Red Sox made several high profile acquisitions, so far this off season, in acquiring Adrian Gonzalez, Carl Crawford and are rumored to be in pursuit of several free agent pitchers, that remain. With their current inflated payroll, it seems that Boston, if the 'whispers' are true, may be trying to shave a little off. Their current depth at shortstop, consists of Jed Lowrie, due to make $434K, appeared in 23 games last year, and Yamaico Navarro, who made his MLB debut last season, appeared  in 20 games. Also, their current depth at catcher consists of Jason Varitek, a 14 year veteran, and Jarrod Saltalamacchia, a 4 year veteran, who was acquired during the 2010 season.


Doumit, for Scutaro, is no where near a good deal, for the Boston Red Sox. Once again, I emphasize that this is only a 'whisper,' if this deal were to happen, most likely we would see a large portion of Doumit's contract being paid by the Pirates. Essentially Scutaro's acquisition would, with his $5M due to him for 2011, increase by the total payroll output for that transaction to, in my opinion, $8M, due to paying for a portion of Doumit.


Would this be a smart move, by the Pittsburgh Pirates? Absolutely! This would fulfill there need for defense at shortstop, having Scutaro be the starter, moving Cedeno to the bench, while Rodriguez would end up in Indianapolis. With Cedeno earning $2M, in 2011, he would be a great bench option for a pinch hitter, as he was spectacular with RISP.


Marco Scutaro:
- Career Offensive Stats: .267 BA/.336 OBP/.385 SLG/.721 OPS
- 2010 Offensive Stats: .275 BA/.333 OBP/.388 SLG/.721 OPS
- Career Defensive Stats: 2231 C/697 PO/1476 A/58 E/308 DP/.978 Fld%

Ronny Cedeno:

- Career Offensive Stats: .245 BA/.284 OBP/.356 SLG/.640 OPS

- 2010 Offensive Stats: .256 BA/.293 OBP/.382 SLG/.675 OPS

- Career Defense Stats: 1690 C/526 PA/1108 A/56 E/200 DP/.967 Fld%

Pirates Add First Baseman; Lyle Overbay

The Pirates add defense at first base by signing, former Blue Jay, Lyle Overbay. Overbay, defensively, will add to the level on field, being a 10 year veteran of the position, playing in Arizona, Milwaukee and Toronto. Offensively, it also is an increase , statistically, from current first baseman, Garrett Jones, as both Overbay and Jones, were unable to duplicate their 2009 season, in 2010.


Overbay will be 34 years of age, by the start of the season, signed a 1yr/5M deal. It was reported by MLB.com/Pirates.com's Jenifer Longosch, that the deal was in place last Tuesday, December 7th, at the Winter Meetings, in Orlando, but wasn't completed until today, as financial terms were agreed upon. The Pirates General Manager, Neal Huntington, confirmed Overbay will take the majority of starts at first base, and will platoon Jones, and recently acquired, Matt Diaz, in right field.


In 2010, one of the biggest problems, besides starting pitching, was the lack of defense. With their sites set on improvement, this signing will certainly increase the defense, at first base, and the infield in general. Last year, Garrett Jones, while playing first base, committed 9 errors in 112 games, at the position. On several occasions, Jones noticeably had troubles throwing from first base to second base, in double play attempts, and wasn't able to get full range at the position. It should be noted that in 2009, Jones only error was committed at first base.


This move has cemented Jones and Diaz, into a platoon in right field, for the 2011 season and guaranteeing an overall improvement on production from the that position, both offensively and defensively. Jones, better a the plate against RHP, and Diaz, better at the plate against LHP, will take their starts according to the pitchers. With Overbays defensive skills, there will be far less errors committed in the infield, and won't see as many errant throws into left field, while attempting to turn a double play. Full details of the contract have yet to be released, though I would like to see a club option for 2012, pending the inevitable move of Pedro Alvarez to first base.


The Pirates find themselves still in search of securing an upgrade at shortstop and starting pitching, though there have been a few signing and acquisitions, during the off season, upgrades are still needed.




Lyle Overbay: 10 Years
-Career Offensive Stats: .274 BA/.358 OBP/.447 SLG/.805 OPS; 122 HR/524 RBI


 -2010 Offensive Stats: .243 BA/.329 OBP/.433 SLG/.762 OPS


-Career Defensive Stats: 10028 C/9159 PO/819 A/50 E/868 DP/.995 Fld%  


Garrett Jones: 2 years
-Career Offensive Stats: .258 BA/.324 OBP/.457 SLG/.781 OPS; 44 HR/135 RBI


-2010 Offensive Stats: .247 BA/.306 OBP/.414 SLG/.720 OPS


-Career Defensive Stats: 1135 C/1196 PO/129 A/10 E/.993 Fld%

Matt Diaz: 8 years

-Career Offensive Stats: .301 BA/.350 OBP/.456 SLG/.806 OPS; 43 HR/192 RBI

-2010 Offensive Stats: .250 BA/.302 OBP/.438 SLG/.739 OPS

-Career Defensive Stats: 717 C/688 PO/14 A/15 E/.979 Fld%

2010 Pittsburgh Pirates Defensive Stats:

                           6016 C/4235 PO/1654 A/127 E/.979 Fld%

Clint Hurdle: Change

Thanks to @chrissytinaaa for the pic. @Kristpie and myself were talking, we need to make this into a t-shirt. If you don't follow them (you probably already do), do so, good people.

Pirates Miss Out On Another SS

The Pirates, actively looking for an upgrade at shortstop, have missed out on another oppurtunity. Ken Rosenthal, of FOXSPORTS.com, has reported that the St. Louis Cardinals have, successfully, traded SS Brendan Ryan, to the Seattle Mariners, for RHP Mikael Cleto. The Pirates, previously rumored to be in pursuit of Jason Bartlett, and J.J. Hardy, were unsuccessful on acquiring either, though the Bartlett trade has yet to be completed.

During the Rule 5 Draft, the Pirates added, Indians prospect, Josh Rodriguez. This seems to be the way they are wanting to go, at shortstop. Rodriguez, in my opinion, would be an upgrade at the plate, but defensively, he seems to be on the same level as Cedeno. 

Tabata To Play Winter Ball

In September, the Pirates decided to not permit, LF Jose Tabata, to play winter ball, in his home country of Venezuela, citing possible injury as reasoning. Tabata, after 4 months (Debuted: June 9,2010) of playing at the Major League level, he found himself finishing the year with .299 BA/4 HR/35 RBI/19 SB/.746 OPS, and tied for 8th in Rookie of the Year voting. On Wednesday, it was announced that, the Pirates would permit, Tabata to play winter ball in Venezuela, with Caribes de Anzoategui, through the end of December.


With only 3 weeks remaining, in the month of December, Tabata, will seemingly, be playing for the love of the game. With no permission to play anytime after January, he will be unable to participate in any playoffs, and as it stands, Caribes de Anzoategui, are three games behind, while being in sixth place. It is common for Major Leaguers to participate in winter ball, in Venezuela, listed below are just a few notable players, currently on the general roster of the Caribes de Anzoategui:

• P Carlos Zambrano (Cubs)
• P Gabriel Alvarado (West Virginia Power; Pirate -A)
• C Victor Martinez (Tigers)
• IF Omar Infanta (Braves)
• IF Andenson Chourio (Bradenton Marauders; Pirates +A)
• OF Magglio Ordonez (Tigers)
• OF Gorkys Hernandez (Altoona Curve; Pirates AA)
• OF Cayonez Exicardo (GCL Pirates; Pirates A)

Projected Starter Rotation & Line-up: As of 12/9/2010

Starting Rotation: 

1. James McDonald
2. Ross Ohlendorf
3. Paul Maholm
4. Kevin Correia
5. Charlie Morton

Even with the addition of Scott Olsen, I still see him in the bullpen.

Batting Line-up

1. Andrew McCutchen CF
2. Jose Tabata LF
3. Neil Walker 2B
4. Pedro Alvarez 3B
5. Garrett Jones 1B
6. Ryan Doumit/Matt Diaz RF
7. Chris Snyder C
8. Ronnie Cedeno SS
9. Pitcher

This is as the 25 Man roster appears now, and is merely my own opinion on how the rotation and line-up will be. There is plenty of time to trade Doumit, or acquire more starting pitching.

Winter Meetings Wrap Up

The 2010 MLB Winter Meetings, held in Orlando, Florida, have officially wrapped up. The Pirates entered the meetings looking to fill needs, at Right Field, Shortstop, First Base and Pitching. Early on, they were attached to several players, showing interest in players, such as; Justin Duchscherer(FA), Orlando Cabrera (FA), Kenshin Kawakami(ATL), Brendan Ryan(STL), J.J. Hardy (MIN), Jason Bartlett (TBD).


There were several teams that were active, from the start, on December 6th. We saw the Diamondbacks making trades to receive prospects in return, Orioles receive third baseman Mark Reynolds, ‘Reynolds deal just tip of iceberg for O’s’ Orioles/MLB.com Brittany Ghiroli, writes. The Nationals, who made a blockbuster/excessive deal with Jayson Werth, were actively pursuing Cliff Lee and a possible Zack Greinke trade. We saw the Pirates active early, in showing interest.


On Monday, the Pirates came to terms with left-handed pitcher Scott Olsen, for 1yr/1MM with performance incentives. Olsen, a former Marlin and National, seems to be poised to be the fifth starter, in a newly revamped rotation, though if recent performances continue, he may be transitioned to the bullpen. Also late Monday night, Pirates signed, former Giant and Padre, right-handed pitcher Kevin Correia, to a 2yr/8MM contract, the first multi-year FA signing in years. Correia, started his career in San Fransisco as a reliever, later became a starter. The two previous seasons, in San Diego, he finished with a record of 22 – 21, Correia would find himself somewhere in the middle of the rotation, most likely behind Macdonald and Ohlendorf.


Tuesday, the Pirates found themselves inquiring about Braves pitcher Kenshin Kawakami, in which the Braves want to unload his $6M salary for 2011 and are willing to pay a portion, also made contact with, free agent SS, Orlando Cabrera’s agent. There was interest being shown in, reliever Aaron Heilman, closer Kevin Gregg and spoke with Hiroyuki Kobayashi, for a minor league deal. The only transaction made on Tuesday, was the signing of, former Brave, Matt Diaz for 2yr/4.25M. Diaz, an outfielder, would certainly add support to the platoon plan in right field, though he is not a power hitter, did have career highs in 2009 but was plagued with a thumb injury in 2010.


On Wednesday, it was fairly quiet for the Pirates, only being attached to several rumors circulating through the whole day. The need for upgrade at Shortstop, found the Pirates showing interest, in trading for, JJ Hardy(MIN), who was eventually traded to the Orioles, Jason Barlett(TBD), currently in a ‘Gentlemans agreement’ to be traded to San Diego, and Brendan Ryan(STL), which St. Louis was actively pursuing a trade, with acquiring Ryan Theriot. It was made public, that they were willing to trade Paul Maholm, and were trying to dump Ryan Doumit in anyway possible.


Rounding out the Winter Meetings, was the Rule 5 Draft, where the Pirates were hoping to pick up some depth for the organization. In the first round, they selected SS Josh Rodriguez, which was a phenomenal pick up, out of the Cleveland Indians organization. After passing in the Double-A Phase, the Pirates selected OF Bradley Chalk, from San Diego, and C Travis Scott, from Seattle. Pirates lost P Nate Adcock, who was acquired from Seattle in the Jack Wilson trade, to Kansas City. Adcock had a stellar year in Bradenton, and will certainly missed in the organization. During the draft, to complete the Zack Duke trade, the Pirates received P Cesar Valdez, as the PTBNL, from the Diamondbacks.


All-in-all, the Winter Meetings seemed to be a slight success for the Pirates. The additions of Matt Diaz, will add to the platoon in right field, Kevin Correia will certainly add a to a dismal starting rotation, and Scott Olsen, in my opinion, will ultimately end up in the bullpen. Though the meetings are over, ground work has been laid out, and trades could still be made; Kenshin Kawakami, from the Braves, and Brendan Ryan, from the Cardinals, are two possible trades that have been rumored. 


The Winter Meetings are also a prime time to make contacts with free agents, and the PIrates have been linked to; IF Bill Hall, P Bartolo Colon, IF/OF Alfredo Amezaga, P’s Kevin Gregg, Justin Duchscherer, Jeremy Accardo and Aaron Heilman. It seems as though they are attempting to build up the bullpen, giving them room to possibly trade Evan Meek or Joel Hanrahan. The increase in payroll, the Bob Nutting, Pirates majority owner, ensured, seems to be still floating around and with the transactions made, seems to have barely been touched. If there is going to be money spent, it most certainly will happen with a trade/contract extension, or a prior mentioned free agent signing.

Pirates Lose Pitching Prospect, Nate Adcock

The Kansas City Royals, selected Nate Adcock, in todays Rule 5 Draft. Adcock, acquired from Seattle in 2009, from the Jack Wilson trade, spent the remainder of that season in Lynchburg, and 2010 in Bradenton, where he posted stellar numbers.


2010 MiLB Stats: 11-7, 3.38 ERA in 28 Games/141.1 IP


This is a huge loss for the Pirates. It was a difficult decision, to not protect him, by not placing him on the 40 Man Roster. He would have been a great arm to have in the majors in the coming years.

Pirates Select C Travis Scott

Pirates added organizational depth, at catcher, today, with another Rule 5 Draft selection, by picking C Travis Scott, from the Seattle Mariners organization. Scott, a 20th round pick in the 2005 MLB Amateur Draft, has spent, the better part, of 5 season in single A, and appeared in the final week of AA, in the 2010 season. 

Career MiLB Offensive Stats: .270 BA/.343 OBP/.464 SLG/.807 OPS

With the inevitable promotion of Tony Sanchez, the most probable place Scott will end up is with the Bradenton Marauders. His offensive stats are A-typical of catchers, but has been in single A for nearly 5 years. He may seem to be another Eric Kratz, and be a career minor leaguer.

Pirates Select OF Bradley Chalk

Another selection, from the Rule 5 Draft, was OF Bradley Chalk, from the San Diego Padres. A product of Clemson, he was chosen in the 2nd round in the 2007 MLB Amateur draft. During the 2010 MiLB season, he quickly climbed the ranks from high A(Lake Elsinore), to AA(San Antonio), finishing the year in AAA(Portland).

MiLB Career Offensive Stats: .273 BA/.340 OBP/.348 SLG/.688 OPS

2010 AAA Offensive Stats: .313 BA/.375 OBP/.388 SLG/.763 OPS w/81AB

By the start of the season, Chalk will be 25 y/o. Being picked from the Rule 5 Draft, he will be placed on the 40 Man Roster, and will certainly be in Bradenton for Spring Training. If he is able to maintain the steady increase at the plate, he most certainly will be bidding for a spot on the 25 Man Roster.

RHP Cesar Valdez Completes Duke Trade

To complete the Zack Duke trade, to Arizona, in late November, the Pirates receive Cesar Valdez, the trade was made for a player to be named later. At the time, all MLB 40 Man rosters were frozen, awaiting the Rule 5 draft. After the completion of the first round (AAA), the completion was announced.

Cesar Valdez, was signed by the Diamondbacks, in 2005, as an amateur free agent. He did make his MLB debut May of the 2010 season, and was sent back to AAA, after being designated for assignment.

2010 MLB Stats (20 IP in 9 games): 1-2, 7.65 ERA, 13 K; Allowing 29 H/19 R/17 ER

*Was unable to find stats for his MiLB career, within the Diamondbacks organization.

I do see Valdez going to Indianapolis, his MLB career doesn't show to be too promising, and the simple fact the Diamondbacks did not protect him, by adding him to the 40 Man Roster, from the Rule 5 Draft pick, shows how confident they were with his arm. Compared to Duke's numbers last year, this may seem to be an even swap, but when you add his potential payroll in, this was a great move to trade him, while they still had player control.

Pirates Select SS Josh Rodriguez

The Pirates have selected SS Josh Rodriguez, from the Cleveland Indians. Rodriguez, a 2nd round draft pick, from the 2006 amateur draft, has experience at 2B, 3B, SS and OF.

Career MiLB Stats (5 Seasons): .266 BA/.356 OBP/.426 SLG/.782 OPS

-2010 (AA Akron/AAA Columbus): .297 BA/.378 OBP/.484 SLG/.862 OPS

There has been an offensive increase, steadily through his minor league career. He is not a power hitter, by any means, with the kind of offensive ability he has shown, he would be a great addition to a bat off of the bench. His defensive stats, through out his career have be decent, but need improvement.

Career MiLB Defense Stats: 1924 Chances/651 PO/1186 A/87 E/.955 Fld

Rule 5 draft picks must be placed on the 40 man roster, though where will his destination be? He will either have a three hour drive to Pittsburgh or a two and a half hour drive to Indianapolis. This was definitely a nice pick-up, for the Pirates, in the first round today.

Bartlett out: Hardy vs. Ryan

It's just been confirmed that Jason Bartlet was sent to San Diego, in exchange for 2 pitchers, leaving J.J. Hardy still in the mix, and another name has also been mentioned, though not much talk has been done, Brendan Ryan.

Brendan Ryan, a 4 year veteran, has been in the St. Louis organization his entire professional career, and doesn’t become a free agent until 2014, though in 2011 is owed $425K, and is arbitration eligible. Ryan does have history of oblique strain and hamstring strains. Prior to becoming an everyday SS in 2009, he was a utility player, playing at 2B SS and 3B. 

J.J. Hardy: 

Offensive Career Stats .263 BA/.320 OBP/.394 SLG/ .714 OPS;

2010 in 101 Games .268 BA/.320 OBP/.394 SLG/.714 OPS

Defensive Stats: Career- .978 Fld%; 2010 in 858.1 Inn/450 Chances/150 PutOuts/289 Assists/11 E = .976 Fld%

Brendan Ryan:

Career Offensive Stats .259 BA/.314 OBP/.244 SLG/.658 OPS; 2010 .223 BA/.279 OBP/.294 SLG/.573 OPS

Defensive stats: Career .979 FLD%; 2010 1127.1 Innings/644 Chances/197 PutOuts/430 assists/ 17 E = .974 Fld%

For a refresher, here is info, from the previous post, on Hardy:

J.J. Hardy of the Twins, is 28 years of age, and has 1 year remaining on his current contract, with a salary of 6.5M due in 2011. Hardy does have a history of dislocated shoulder, and a torn labrum. In 2007, was chosen for the All-Star reserve team, representing the Brewers. His offensive stats increased significantly from 2009 to 2010.

JJ Hardy vs. Jason Bartlett: Side by Side stats

The Pirates have been linked to trade talks with, both the Twins and the Rays, for their shortstops.

J.J. Hardy of the Twins, is 28 years of age, and has 1 year remaining on his current contract, with a salary of 6.5M due in 2011. Hardy does have a history of dislocated shoulder, and a torn labrum. In 2007, was chosen for the All-Star reserve team, representing the Brewers. His offensive stats increased significantly from 2009 to 2010.

Jason Bartlett of the Rays, is 31 years of age, and has 1 year remaining on his current contract, made 4M in 2010, and was arbitration eligible for 2011. Bartlett has had issues with his hamstring, in the past. In 2008, he was voted as the MVP of the Rays, and in 2009 was elected to the All-Star team. His offensive stats decreased significantly from 2009 to 2010.

J.J. Hardy: 

Offenseive Career Stats .263 BA/.320 OBP/.394 SLG/ .714 OPS;

2010 in 101 Games .268 BA/.320 OBP/.394 SLG/.714 OPS

Defensive Stats: Career- .978 Fld%; 2010 in 858.1 Inn/450 Chances/150 PutOuts/289 Assists/11 E = .976 Fld%

Jason Bartlett: Career Stats  .281 BA/345 OBP/.385 SLG/.731 OPS; 2010 in 135 Games 2.54 BA/.324 OBP/.350 SLG/.675 OPS

Defensive Stats: Career- .968 FLD%; 2010- 1104.0 Inn/472 Chances/152 PutOuts/309 Assists/11 E = .977 Fld%


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It is being reported that Jason Bartlett is seeking an extension, with whichever team he may get traded to.


Also Pirates beat write Rob Beirtemfel earlier tweeted:

@RobBiertempfel: #pirates could have inside track on bartlett if #rays drop demand for rp joel hanrahan in swap

According to MLB.com Jason Bartlett has been traded to San Diego