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BPS3akaWirels3
11-05-2010, 08:10 AM
Pirates Prepare To Pursue Free Agent Starters (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/11/pirates-prepare-to-pursue-free-agent-starters.html)

By Ben Nicholson-Smith [November 5, 2010 at 7:55am CST]
Pirates president Frank Coonelly told Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review (http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/pirates/s_707762.html) that the team “must pitch far better in 2011” and confirmed that GM Neal Huntington will have money to spend on free agent arms. The Pirates, who had a $35MM payroll in 2010, could boost that above $50MM in 2011, Coonelly said.
Huntington anticipates “a low-supply, high-demand market" for starting pitching this offseason, so he’s apprehensive about over-committing and signing deals that look questionable in a few years.
"We know we've got some holes to fill and some money to be able to do it," Huntington said. "But, we'll still have to do it intelligently."
Huntington says he is open to signing pitchers to one-year deals or, under the right circumstances, multiyear contracts. The Pirates don’t have much certainty in their projected 2011 rotation (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/09/the-pirates-2011-rotation.html), so they’ll explore ways of adding starters via (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/11/trade-market-for-left-handed-starters.html) trade (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/11/trade-market-for-right-handed-starters.html) and free (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/11/free-agent-market-for-left-handed-starters.html) agency (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/11/free-agent-market-for-right-handed-starters.html).



If you like this thread then follow me on twitter at HUGEBUCSFAN Thanks

BPS3akaWirels3
11-05-2010, 08:15 AM
Renck says there's about a "60% (http://twitter.com/TroyRenck/status/29635426736)" chance that Francis returns to Colorado. He notes that Pittsburgh could be interested (http://twitter.com/TroyRenck/status/29635484450) in Francis if former Rockies manager Clint Hurdle is hired to manage the Bucs and if Zach Duke (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/dukeza01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) is non-tendered.

Steven Jackson (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/j/jacksst01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), Brandon Moss (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mossbr01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) and Justin Thomas (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/t/thomaju01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) can all become minor league free agents after being outrighted to Pittsburgh's Triple-A affiliate, reports MLB.com's Jenifer Langosch (http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20101103&content_id=15985650&vkey=news_pit&c_id=pit&partnerId=rss_pit). Sean Gallagher (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/gallase01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), who was also outrighted, can declare free agency on Saturday but Langosch says the Pirates will try to sign the pitcher to a contract before then.

Pirates Re-Sign Wil Ledezma (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/11/pirates-re-sign-wil-ledezma.html)

By Mark Polishuk [November 3, 2010 at 5:12pm CST]
The Pirates have agreed to terms with left-hander Wil Ledezma (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/ledezwi01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) on a one-year contract, according to a team press release. The Bucs signed (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2009/11/pirates-sign-wil-ledezma.html) the 29-year-old to a minor league deal last winter and he delivered a 6.86 ERA in 27 relief appearances. With the signing, Pittsburgh avoids arbitration with Ledezma.



Amateur Signing Bonuses: Pirates (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/10/amateur-signing-bonuses-pirates-1.html)

By Mike Axisa [October 31, 2010 at 9:01pm CST]
Let's move our amateur signing bonus to the Steel City...


Jameson Taillon (http://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/player.cgi?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker&id=taillo001jam), $6.5MM (2010)
Pedro Alvarez (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/alvarpe01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), $6MM (2008)
Bryan Bullington (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/bullibr01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), $4MM (2002)
Brad Lincoln (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/lincobr01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), $2.75MM (2006)
Luis Heredia, $2.6MM (2010)

If there's any good that can come out of finishing with a below-.500 record for 18 straight years, it's that you'll have a ton of high draft picks. Unfortunately for the Pirates, they really didn't take advantage of those high picks until the last few years, as too many first rounders to count have flamed out since the team's last winning season. Neal Huntington has been dedicated to building the next great Pirates team through the farm system, so he's spent a ton of money on amateurs since taking over in late 2007. In fact, Pittsburgh has doled out close to $30.6MM on draft picks in the three years that Huntington's run the team, the most in baseball (http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/draft/?p=2928) by more than $2MM.

BPS3akaWirels3
11-05-2010, 08:22 AM
http://buccofans.s3.amazonaws.com/40ManProjection.GIF

steelpride12
11-05-2010, 09:35 AM
Good read nice post! but if the Buccos are really going to go after pitchers in free agency all I have to say is Ill believe it when I see it.

Hindes204
11-05-2010, 10:03 AM
Please dont get my hopes up, Ive been waiting for this for 20 years

steelerdude15
11-05-2010, 02:46 PM
It would be nice if it actually happens.

oneforthetoe
11-05-2010, 02:53 PM
Would all pitchers suffering from arm problems and offering services at a discount please step forward? Also, if you are a cricket player wanting to make the switch please come on down?

X-Terminator
11-06-2010, 07:14 AM
I'll file this one under "I'll believe it when I see it."

Instead of a $50mm payroll, how about shoot for $70mm to try to find a couple of pitchers and another power bat for the middle of the lineup, preferably one that can play RF?

*Nutting faints*

What, too much? Sorry...instead we'll spend $40mm, bring in another guy with a 8.00 ERA and say we're "investing those dollars saved in other areas of the organization." How's that?

BPS3akaWirels3
11-11-2010, 08:41 AM
Moss and Jackson are now minor league FA's and Jakubauskas was released. That sucks for jak because he was the one pitcher I was rooting for from the minors. He was hit in the head by a hit ball in his first major league start and could never recover from the disabled list. I saw that game it was a nasty one with him just laying there and his legs flopping like a fish out of water...

BPS3akaWirels3
11-19-2010, 08:57 PM
Zach Duke, Andy LaRoche and Delwyn Young have been designated for assignment. Club's 40-man roster now contains 40 players.

BPS3akaWirels3
11-19-2010, 09:18 PM
#Pirates (http://twitter.com/search?q=%23Pirates) add LHPs Jeff Locke (Altoona Curve / 3.59 ERA), Daniel Moskos ???, RHPs Mike Crotta (Indy / 4.93), Kyle McPherson (WVA / 3.59) , Tony Watson (Altoona / 2.67) to 40-man roster.

BPS3akaWirels3
11-20-2010, 08:10 AM
ZachDukeFans (http://twitter.com/ZachDukeFans)
“I understand this business decision and wish the Pirates and my friends still on the team the best of luck in the future.” ~ Zach Duke

smokin3000gt
11-20-2010, 02:12 PM
I know what else is true.. all of us in the halfway house have been saddened by the sudden departure of our buddy BPS3. :pout:

BPS3akaWirels3
11-20-2010, 03:30 PM
I know what else is true.. all of us in the halfway house have been saddened by the sudden departure of our buddy BPS3. :pout:

I'll be back guys.. I promise.. I am working on something BIG!! Real big.. Ya hear me... EPIC

BPS3akaWirels3
11-24-2010, 09:30 PM
Pirates Interested In Scott Olsen (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/11/pirates-interested-in-scott-olsen.html)

By Mark Polishuk [November 24, 2010 at 6:03pm CST]
The Pirates are "deeply interested" in former Nationals left-hander Scott Olsen (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/o/olsensc01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), writes Dejan Kovacevic of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (http://plus.sites.post-gazette.com/index.php/sports-town/pbc-blog/106573-pirates-deeply-interested-in-olsen). The Bucs are known to be looking for pitching this winter, and they have a particular need for left-handed starting help after the club designated (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/11/pirates-designate-duke-laroche-young.html) Zach Duke (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/dukeza01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) for assignment last week.
Olsen posted a 5.56 ERA and a 1.96 K/BB ratio in 17 games (15 of them starts) for Washington last season. He spent some time on the DL due to continued soreness in his throwing shoulder and had his 2009 season cut short due to labrum surgery on that same shoulder. Health issues aside, Olsen has shown only flashes of consistency in his six-year career (a lifetime 4.85 ERA), but he has value as a low-risk/high-upside signing. Matt Sosnick, Olsen's agent, tells Kovacevic that Pittsburgh is "one of several teams that have expressed interest in Scott."


http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/11/pirates-interested-in-scott-olsen.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter


In other news Zach Duke is now a D-Back..

BPS3akaWirels3
11-25-2010, 09:29 AM
Pirates Release Nine Minor Leaguers (http://www.piratesprospects.com/2010/11/pirates-release-nine-minor-leaguers.html)

http://www.piratesprospects.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/pittsburgh-pirates.jpeg (http://www.piratesprospects.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/pittsburgh-pirates.jpeg)According to Baseball America (http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/prospects/?p=10620), the Pittsburgh Pirates have released nine minor league players. Those players are:
RHP Sheng-Cin Hong
RHP Melkin Laureano (http://players.piratesprospects.com/2010/05/melkin-laureano.html)
RHP Yomar Pacheco
RHP Dinesh Patel (If anyone remembers this guy, he was one of 2 guys to win an India contest back about 3 yrs ago and got to play in the minors for the Bucco's)

1B Chih-Wei Hsu
1B Kyle Morgan (http://players.piratesprospects.com/2010/02/kyle-morgan.html)
3B Andury Acevedo
OF Erik Huber (http://players.piratesprospects.com/2010/02/erik-huber.html)
OF Kyle Saukko



Read more: Pirates Release Nine Minor Leaguers | Pirates Prospects (http://www.piratesprospects.com/2010/11/pirates-release-nine-minor-leaguers.html#ixzz16JBLeWsq) http://www.piratesprospects.com/2010/11/pirates-release-nine-minor-leaguers.html#ixzz16JBLeWsq

steelerdude15
11-26-2010, 12:12 AM
I still feel like nothing is happening.

BPS3akaWirels3
11-26-2010, 09:25 AM
I still feel like nothing is happening.

And what would you like then?


p.s. And don't say for Nutting to sell the team..... Everyone wants that..

X-Terminator
11-26-2010, 03:53 PM
Scott Olsen? Can they PLEASE go after a pitcher who doesn't have a history of arm problems AND sucks on top of it? Sheesh! It's the same shit, different damn day with this "organization."

steelerdude15
11-28-2010, 09:22 PM
And what would you like then?


p.s. And don't say for Nutting to sell the team..... Everyone wants that..
For the Pirates to actually get good people and yes, for shithead to sell the team.

BPS3akaWirels3
11-28-2010, 09:26 PM
For the Pirates to actually get good people and yes, for shithead to sell the team.

Wouldn't happen with new owners either... Pittsburgh is not a major market.. At best Nutting could spend as much as $50-$75 mil in a season..

BPS3akaWirels3
11-28-2010, 09:44 PM
But know this: The money is there.
A breakdown of the current 40-man roster commitments shows $18.1 million committed to five signed players for 2011: Chris Snyder ($6.25 million), Paul Maholm ($5.75 million), Ryan Doumit ($5.1 million), Wil Ledezma ($600,000) and Pedro Alvarez ($550,000). There also are five arbitration-eligible players with the recent release of Zach Duke, and they probably will wind up costing an additional $8 million. The rest of the roster, although subject to significant change, is made up of players with less than three years of major-league experience, meaning the team can assign any salary it wishes. That usually is close to the $400,000 minimum, which would make for an additional $7 million.
Grand total: $33 million.
That is about $20 million below where the Pirates can be expected to finish the year in 40-man roster payouts and, yes, should management choose to laser in on top talent, it can buy a de la Rosa or two.
Consider this, too, for those justifiably skeptical that the team will take that to the limit: No one on any side is likely to acknowledge this, but the Pirates probably must spend more than their $48 million total of 2010. Coonelly was successful in convincing the union in the spring that the team was spending appropriately for a young roster, but that stance will not last long. If the union does not like what it sees, it could push for an investigation similar to the one that prompted the Florida Marlins to finally raise payroll.



(http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/10332/1106366-63.stm?cmpid=pirates.xml#ixzz16di5sJww)

steelerdude15
11-28-2010, 11:25 PM
Wouldn't happen with new owners either... Pittsburgh is not a major market.. At best Nutting could spend as much as $50-$75 mil in a season..
Yeah, but same thing with the Rays and look at what they've done over the past few years. I believe they have less money than us.

steelerdude15
11-28-2010, 11:28 PM
But know this: The money is there.
A breakdown of the current 40-man roster commitments shows $18.1 million committed to five signed players for 2011: Chris Snyder ($6.25 million), Paul Maholm ($5.75 million), Ryan Doumit ($5.1 million), Wil Ledezma ($600,000) and Pedro Alvarez ($550,000). There also are five arbitration-eligible players with the recent release of Zach Duke, and they probably will wind up costing an additional $8 million. The rest of the roster, although subject to significant change, is made up of players with less than three years of major-league experience, meaning the team can assign any salary it wishes. That usually is close to the $400,000 minimum, which would make for an additional $7 million.
Grand total: $33 million.
That is about $20 million below where the Pirates can be expected to finish the year in 40-man roster payouts and, yes, should management choose to laser in on top talent, it can buy a de la Rosa or two.
Consider this, too, for those justifiably skeptical that the team will take that to the limit: No one on any side is likely to acknowledge this, but the Pirates probably must spend more than their $48 million total of 2010. Coonelly was successful in convincing the union in the spring that the team was spending appropriately for a young roster, but that stance will not last long. If the union does not like what it sees, it could push for an investigation similar to the one that prompted the Florida Marlins to finally raise payroll.
I'm all up for an investigation. I always new the money was there, but I didn't realize there was that much money. They can pick up a couple of top notch players and they should.

BPS3akaWirels3
11-29-2010, 09:10 AM
Pirates Show Interest in Lance Berkman (http://www.piratesprospects.com/2010/11/pirates-show-interest-in-lance-berkman.html)

http://www.piratesprospects.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/lance-berkman-backhand-300x243.jpg (http://www.piratesprospects.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/lance-berkman-backhand.jpeg)The Pirates have expressed interest in Berkman.

The Pittsburgh Pirates have shown interest in a lot of players this off-season, although most of those players have been pitchers. In an interview with Richard Justice of the Houston Chronicle (http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/7314078.html), former Houston Astros first baseman Lance Berkman lists the Pirates as one of the teams that has contacted him expressing their interest. Berkman also lists the Cardinals, Cube, Rockies, A's, and Blue Jays as other teams that have contacted him, although he mentions that he hasn't received a specific offer yet.
Berkman has been on a bit of a decline the last few years. After posting a .312/.420/.567 line in 554 at-bats in 2008, he slipped to a .274/.399/.509 line in 460 at-bats in 2009. Things fell apart in 2010 when he started off with a .245/.372/.436 line in 298 at-bats with the Astros. He was then traded to the New York Yankees, where he finished the season with a .255/.358/.349 line in 106 at-bats.



Read more: Pirates Show Interest in Lance Berkman | Pirates Prospects (http://www.piratesprospects.com/2010/11/pirates-show-interest-in-lance-berkman.html#ixzz16gUjPCB3) http://www.piratesprospects.com/2010/11/pirates-show-interest-in-lance-berkman.html#ixzz16gUjPCB3

BPS3akaWirels3
12-01-2010, 03:19 PM
#Pirates (http://twitter.com/search?q=%23Pirates) sign RHP Fernando Nieve (Mets ERA 09' 2.95 / 10' 6.00), INF Andy Marte (CLE for 4 yrs 1st/3rd base) and C Dusty Brown (RSOX played in 13 games 09'/10') to Minor League deals with invitation to Spring Training.

BPS3akaWirels3
12-01-2010, 03:21 PM
PITTSBURGH -- By 11:59 p.m. ET on Thursday, the Pirates must decide which of their five remaining arbitration-eligible players -- a group that includes Joel Hanrahan, Ross Ohlendorf, Ronny Cedeno, Lastings Milledge and Jeff Karstens -- will be tendered a contract for 2011.
That list of five has already been pared down, as Pittsburgh actually began the offseason with nine players facing arbitration. Of that initial group, Wil Ledezma has already agreed to a one-year deal for next season. Zach Duke, Andy LaRoche and Delwyn Young were designated for assignment and removed from the roster last month.
Those recent roster moves take away much of the intrigue leading up to Thursday's deadline. Pittsburgh is certain to offer a contract to at least four of those remaining five arbitration-eligible players, with Karstens the only one who could potentially be left on the outside.



http://pittsburgh.pirates.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20101201&content_id=16236016&vkey=news_pit&c_id=pit

BPS3akaWirels3
12-01-2010, 04:26 PM
Pirates Interested In Bartlett, Hardy (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/12/pirates-interested-in-bartlett-hardy.html)

By Ben Nicholson-Smith [December 1, 2010 at 4:18pm CST]
The Pirates would like to upgrade at shortstop and are interested in Jason Bartlett (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/bartlja01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) and J.J. Hardy (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hardyjj01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), according to Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports (http://mlbbuzz.yardbarker.com/blog/mlbbuzz/pirates_may_find_favorable_market_at_short/3710894). The Pirates would like to upgrade over Ronny Cedeno (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/cedenro02.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) before the 2011 season starts and Hardy and Bartlett (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/11/rays-moving-closer-to-trading-bartlett-1.html) appear to be available.
Cedeno, 27, batted .256/.293/.382 in 502 plate appearances last year. He has never shown much power in six big league seasons and has a .284 OBP in his career. Though he doesn't provide much offense, few shortstops do. Bartlett posted an identical .675 OPS last year and that was better than the marks Orlando Cabrera (http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?search=Orlando+Cabrera&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), Yunel Escobar (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/e/escobyu01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), Elvis Andrus (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/andruel01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), Erick Aybar (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/aybarer01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), Alcides Escobar (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/e/escobal02.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) and Cesar Izturis (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/i/izturce01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) posted.

BPS3akaWirels3
12-02-2010, 03:53 PM
On Connelly's online chat today he did confirm that Ohlendorf and Hanrahan have been tendered. They are still working with Cedeno, Milledge and Karstens reps. Top focus is infield defense, mainly for shortstop, right field and 1st base... They will not being doing any minor league trades.. I would expect to see a few AA pitchers in the 2011 season line-up..

BPS3akaWirels3
12-02-2010, 07:57 PM
#Pirates (http://twitter.com/search?q=%23Pirates) close to wrapping up one-year contract with arby-eligible SS Ronny Cedeno. Should be worth around $2M.

BPS3akaWirels3
12-02-2010, 08:15 PM
RHP Jeff Karstens close to agreeing on one-year contract to avoid arbitration.

BPS3akaWirels3
12-03-2010, 07:25 AM
Bucs re-sign two; Milledge among non-tenders

Cedeno, Karstens agree to one-year deals to stay in Pittsburgh

By Jenifer Langosch / MLB.com | 12/03/10 12:42 AM EST


Comments (10) (http://pittsburgh.pirates.mlb.com/news/comments.jsp?ymd=20101203&content_id=16245540&vkey=news_pit&c_id=pit)
1

print (http://pittsburgh.pirates.mlb.com/news/print.jsp?ymd=20101203&content_id=16245540&vkey=news_pit&c_id=pit)
e-mail



PITTSBURGH -- In a busy day of transactions, the Pirates agreed to terms with Ronny Cedeno and Jeff Karstens, tendered contracts to Ross Ohlendorf and Joel Hanrahan, and let Lastings Milledge walk away on Thursday. Pittsburgh had until 11:59 p.m. ET to determine whether or not to offer a contract to those five arbitration-eligible players.
The Pirates opened up additional space on the 40-man roster by not offering contracts to left-hander Donnie Veal, infielder Argenis Diaz and left-hander Brian Burres. Those three, along with Milledge, are now free agents.



http://pittsburgh.pirates.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20101203&content_id=16245540&vkey=news_pit&c_id=pit

steelpride12
12-03-2010, 01:06 PM
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20101203&content_id=16247044&vkey=news_pit&c_id=pit&partnerId=rss_pit

Pirates Seeking Upgrade At Shortstop

BPS3akaWirels3
12-03-2010, 03:14 PM
« Back to blog (http://mlbbuzz.yardbarker.com/blog/mlbbuzz)
Pirates still looking for shortstop (http://mlbbuzz.yardbarker.com/blog/mlbbuzz/pirates_still_looking_for_shortstop/3725556)

1 minute ago by KenRosenthal (http://mlbbuzz.yardbarker.com/users/kenrosenthal)


The Pirates made another attempt to trade for Twins shortstop J.J. Hardy on Thursday night but were unable to complete a deal, major-league sources say.

The Twins tendered Hardy a contract by the midnight ET deadline, but still could trade him and go with Tsuyoshi Nishioka and Alexi Casilla as their middle infield.

The Pirates continue to engage in trade discussions for at least two available shortstops – Hardy and the Rays’ Jason Bartlett.

The Orioles and Padres also are looking for shortstops. The Giants and Cardinals still could upgrade, even after Miguel Tejada and Ryan Theriot, respectively.




http://mlbbuzz.yardbarker.com/blog/mlbbuzz/pirates_still_looking_for_shortstop/3725556?new_post=true

steelerdude15
12-04-2010, 01:55 PM
You know we really don't need to upgrade SS. We need to upgrade our catchers for one and pitching. Jesus, the FO is going for the wrong spots. :doh2:

BPS3akaWirels3
12-04-2010, 03:50 PM
You know we really don't need to upgrade SS. We need to upgrade our catchers for one and pitching. Jesus, the FO is going for the wrong spots. :doh2:

Pirates had the most errors in MLB last season. We need an infield defense along with starting pitchers..

BPS3akaWirels3
12-05-2010, 03:53 PM
The Pirates will focus on pitching at this week's winter meetings, writes Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review (http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/pirates/s_712300.html). Biertempfel names Aaron Heilman (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/heilmaa01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), Jeff Francis (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/francje01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), Brandon Webb (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/webbbr01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), Justin Duchscherer (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/duchsju01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), and Chris Young (http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?search=Chris+Young&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) as potential targets for Pittsburgh.

KeiselPower99
12-05-2010, 05:59 PM
I saw where the Buccos signed Andy Marte. I really hope he turns into something for them. He was given the shaft in Cleveland and never able to turn into the great player that many excpected.

X-Terminator
12-05-2010, 06:22 PM
Pirates had the most errors in MLB last season. We need an infield defense along with starting pitchers..

Exactly. Alvarez and Walker should be better this year, but Jones and especially Cedeno were absolutely brutal. Cedeno should be a backup only, so I hope they are able to trade for a SS. I don't think I have to point out how awful the catchers were - I have never seen a team be as bad at throwing runners out trying to steal as the Pirates were last year. Basically, if you got a single or a walk, it was as good as a double.

As for the pitchers they're looking at, I'll take Brandon Webb and Chris Young, but they'll likely get a couple of scrubs with bad arms, like always.

BPS3akaWirels3
12-05-2010, 11:16 PM
Exactly. Alvarez and Walker should be better this year, but Jones and especially Cedeno were absolutely brutal. Cedeno should be a backup only, so I hope they are able to trade for a SS. I don't think I have to point out how awful the catchers were - I have never seen a team be as bad at throwing runners out trying to steal as the Pirates were last year. Basically, if you got a single or a walk, it was as good as a double.

As for the pitchers they're looking at, I'll take Brandon Webb and Chris Young, but they'll likely get a couple of scrubs with bad arms, like always.

Yes they are still looking for a SS.. Ronnie is not the answer and they already admitted that..

steelerdude15
12-05-2010, 11:56 PM
I don't know, I always liked Ronnie and thought he was a good player. Our catchers are horrible, I'm hoping they can get a really good catcher.

BPS3akaWirels3
12-06-2010, 08:29 AM
I don't know, I always liked Ronnie and thought he was a good player. Our catchers are horrible, I'm hoping they can get a really good catcher.

I would expect no one other then Snyder to be catcher with Ryan filling in from time to time, Snyder has us for $4 mill this year.

X-Terminator
12-06-2010, 09:05 AM
Catcher is going to be an issue for one more year, until Tony Sanchez is ready...

BPS3akaWirels3
12-06-2010, 12:07 PM
Pirates have some interest in Kawakami (http://bucsbits.mlblogs.com/archives/2010/12/pirates_have_some_interest_in.html)

Jenifer Langosch/MLB.com
The Braves are looking to part ways with starter Kenshin Kawakami and, according to one source, the Pirates have shown some interest in the right-hander this offseason. That certainly makes sense, given that the Pirates are searching anywhere and everywhere for starting pitching and that Kawakami is expendable to the Braves.
Kawakami, 35, is set to make $6.667 million in 2011, the final year of a three-year deal he signed with Atlanta. The Braves know that they will have to pick up a significant amount of that salary in order to trade Kawakami, so the cost to acquire him would likely only be $1-2 million. Atlanta is not believed to be seeking any significant player return, either.
After posting a 3.86 ERA in 32 games (25 starts) in 2009, Kawakami never really found his footing last year. He finished 1-10 with a 5.15 ERA in 18 games (16 starts),

http://bucsbits.mlblogs.com/archives/2010/12/pirates_have_some_interest_in.html

BPS3akaWirels3
12-06-2010, 12:11 PM
Pirates Rumors: Kawakami, Brendan Ryan (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/12/pirates-rumors-kawakami-brendan-ryan.html)

By Tim Dierkes [December 6, 2010 at 12:04pm CST]
The latest on the Pirates:


The Pirates have shown some interest in Braves starter Kenshin Kawakami (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kawakke01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), reports MLB.com's Jenifer Langosch (http://bucsbits.mlblogs.com/archives/2010/12/pirates_have_some_interest_in.html). She estimates Kawakami would only cost the Pirates $1-2MM and no significant players, as the Braves are just looking to unload part of his $6.667MM salary.
Langosch says the Pirates have mild interest in Cardinals shortstop Brendan Ryan (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/ryanbr01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker). Dejan Kovacevic of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (http://plus.sites.post-gazette.com/index.php/sports-town/pbc-blog/106792-on-doumit-hanrahan-meek) says the Pirates continue to discuss shortstops with many teams, including J.J. Hardy (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hardyjj01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) with the Twins.
Kovacevic adds that the Pirates would love to trade Ryan Doumit (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/doumiry01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker). He says they'd only trade Evan Meek (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/meekev01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) or Joel Hanrahan (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hanrajo01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) for a very significant return.

BPS3akaWirels3
12-06-2010, 12:44 PM
Pirates Reach Agreement With Scott Olsen (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/12/pirates-reach-agreement-with-scott-olsen.html)

By Tim Dierkes [December 6, 2010 at 12:42pm CST]
The Pirates reached a tentative agreement with lefty Scott Olsen (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/o/olsensc01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) on a one-year, incentive-laden deal, reports MLB.com's Jenifer Langosch (http://bucsbits.mlblogs.com/archives/2010/12/pirates_close_to_agreement_wit.html). The deal will become official if Olsen passes a physical later this week.

BPS3akaWirels3
12-06-2010, 03:22 PM
RT @Dejan_Kovacevic (http://twitter.com/Dejan_Kovacevic): GM just said Ryan Doumit is #Pirates (http://twitter.com/search?q=%23Pirates) starting RF for 2011 "as we sit right now." He also would do some catching


If you like this thread then follow me on twitter at HUGEBUCSFAN

Thanks

steelerdude15
12-06-2010, 05:35 PM
I was doing some reading on Ronnie and I didn't realize he led the team in errors with 18. Doumit as a right fielder, I guess we'll see what happens if he plays that position. Let's hope they can really pick someone up who fits well for that position.

BPS3akaWirels3
12-06-2010, 05:41 PM
Winter Meetings started today in Florida... Watch for a few signings... Pirates have 4 opens spots on the 40 man roster... I like Ronnie, he has a lot of errors, but is young and has made some good defensive plays.. I feel he can clean it up and so do the Bucco's as that shows with a resigning..

steelerdude15
12-06-2010, 05:45 PM
Winter Meetings started today in Florida... Watch for a few signings... Pirates have 4 opens spots on the 40 man roster... I like Ronnie, he has a lot of errors, but is young and has made some good defensive plays.. I feel he can clean it up and so do the Bucco's as that shows with a resigning..
Yeah, but for the money he's making, he should be playing better. He'll be making double next year.

BPS3akaWirels3
12-06-2010, 11:04 PM
RT @jcrasnick (http://twitter.com/jcrasnick): Kevin Correia has reached agreement with Pittsburgh Pirates on a 2-year, $8 million deal, pending a physical, source say

He is coming over from San Diego... in 2010 he had 10w10l and an era 5.40...

steelerdude15
12-06-2010, 11:29 PM
RT @jcrasnick: Kevin Correia has reached agreement with Pittsburgh Pirates on a 2-year, $8 million deal, pending a physical, source say

He is coming over from San Diego... in 2010 he had 10w10l and an era 5.40...
Not a bad pick up IMO. Let's hope he can actually live up to the money, of course depending on the physical.

steelerdude15
12-06-2010, 11:31 PM
Correia, 30, went 10-10 with a 5.40 ERA over 28 games (26 starts) with the Padres in 2010 and lost his spot in the starting rotation during the final month of the season. It was an odd year for Correia in many respects, as he struck out more batters (7.14 K/9) than he did in 2009 (6.45 K/9), but his walk rate increased from 2.91 BB/9 to 3.97 BB/9. He also gave up 20 home runs over 145 innings, despite allowing flyballs less frequently (30.1 percent) than he did in 2009 (36 percent).

http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/12/07/report-pirates-sign-kevin-correia-to-two-year-8-million-contract/

X-Terminator
12-06-2010, 11:45 PM
Yeah, we go from Chris Young and Brandon Webb to Scott Olsen and Kevin Correia. :yawn:

Fucking Pirates...ALWAYS going for the biggest blue-light special crap players they can find...

BPS3akaWirels3
12-07-2010, 07:57 AM
Yeah, we go from Chris Young and Brandon Webb to Scott Olsen and Kevin Correia. :yawn:

Fucking Pirates...ALWAYS going for the biggest blue-light special crap players they can find...

Webb and Hardy are still on the radar.. Actually Kevin is a good deal... Most all are pumped about this one. Olsen on the other hand, well... Let's just say drama in the bullpen...

X-Terminator
12-07-2010, 08:57 AM
Webb and Hardy are still on the radar.. Actually Kevin is a good deal... Most all are pumped about this one. Olsen on the other hand, well... Let's just say drama in the bullpen...

It's hard to get excited about a guy who gave up 20 HR in 145 innings, or one HR every 7 innings, and had a 5.40 ERA to boot. As for Olsen, he's basically Zach Duke with a bad attitude. Why they'd even be interested in that headcase is beyond me. At least they gave him an incentive-laden contract, so if he self-destructs, they can boot him without having to pay him much.

Honestly, I'd be VERY surprised if they landed either Webb or Hardy, or both. These are the Pirates after all.

BPS3akaWirels3
12-07-2010, 09:29 AM
It's hard to get excited about a guy who gave up 20 HR in 145 innings, or one HR every 7 innings, and had a 5.40 ERA to boot. As for Olsen, he's basically Zach Duke with a bad attitude. Why they'd even be interested in that headcase is beyond me. At least they gave him an incentive-laden contract, so if he self-destructs, they can boot him without having to pay him much.

Honestly, I'd be VERY surprised if they landed either Webb or Hardy, or both. These are the Pirates after all.

So there should never been any disappointments.. lol


They also are strongly pursuing (http://www.piratesprospects.com/2010/12/pirates-deeply-interested-in-jeremy-accardo.html) right handed reliever Jeremy Accardo, and according to Dejan Kovacevic (http://plus.sites.post-gazette.com/index.php/sports-town/pbc-blog/106814-newspaper-piece), could be close to signing him.

This will probably be a one year deal,,, Been with the Blue Jays most of his career.. Really didn't do much last year..

Read more: Winter Meetings Notebook: It’s All About Pitching | Pirates Prospects (http://www.piratesprospects.com/2010/12/winter-meetings-notebook-its-all-about-pitching.html#ixzz17RKHTHhE) http://www.piratesprospects.com/2010/12/winter-meetings-notebook-its-all-about-pitching.html#ixzz17RKHTHhE

steelerdude15
12-07-2010, 03:21 PM
Looks like the Pirates are trying to trade Doumit.


LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- The Pirates are eager to trade catcher/outfielder Ryan Doumit, are close to signing free-agent pitcher Scott Olsen, are pursuing free-agent pitcher Jeremy Accardo, could trade for veteran Atlanta starter Kenshin Kawakami and continue to have many other discussions.

Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/10341/1108820-63.stm#ixzz17SmVdrPS

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/10341/1108820-63.stm

BPS3akaWirels3
12-07-2010, 03:24 PM
Looks like the Pirates are trying to trade Doumit.



http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/10341/1108820-63.stm


Not reading all my posts again... lol

steelerdude15
12-07-2010, 03:55 PM
Not reading all my posts again... lol
Sorry about that, I didn't see that on the the page. Doumit isn't that good so trading him would be fine with me.

BPS3akaWirels3
12-07-2010, 03:59 PM
Sorry about that, I didn't see that on the the page. Doumit isn't that good so trading him would be fine with me.

It's the only job I have right now... Got stay on top of it... lol

Borski
12-07-2010, 10:35 PM
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/12/pirates-to-sign-matt-diaz.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter


The Pirates have agreed to sign Matt Diaz to a two-year deal, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports (on Twitter). The Diamondbacks, Red Sox, Royals, Dodgers, Mariners, Blue Jays, and Yankees also had interest in the outfielder, according to reports earlier this week.

BPS3akaWirels3
12-07-2010, 10:43 PM
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/12/pirates-to-sign-matt-diaz.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter


The Pirates have agreed to sign Matt Diaz to a two-year deal, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports (on Twitter). The Diamondbacks, Red Sox, Royals, Dodgers, Mariners, Blue Jays, and Yankees also had interest in the outfielder, according to reports earlier this week.

Unfortunately most thoughts are we should have kept Milledge instead if we are going to sign this guy..

BPS3akaWirels3
12-08-2010, 08:52 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klcFJ-knID0&feature=player_embedded

A BLAST from the PAST could be coming back for 2011...

X-Terminator
12-09-2010, 08:18 AM
Unfortunately most thoughts are we should have kept Milledge instead if we are going to sign this guy..

Nope, I'd rather have Diaz. The fact that the Yank-Mes and Red Sox were interested is good enough for me. He will give you a more consistent bat than Milledge ever did.

BPS3akaWirels3
12-09-2010, 08:58 AM
#Pirates (http://twitter.com/#%21/search?q=%23Pirates) acquire Cesar Valdez as PTBNL in Zach Duke trade with Arizona.

Pirates select catcher Travis Scott from the Los Angeles Angels in the second round of the AAA portion: http://bit.ly/ibEj0p

pirateprospects (http://twitter.com/#%21/pirateprospects) Tim Williams



Pirates take Bradley Chalk from SD in the AAA phase: http://bit.ly/ibEj0p




Pirates select infielder Josh Rodriguez off Cleveland's Triple-A Columbus roster in today's Rule Five Draft.

BPS3akaWirels3
12-09-2010, 09:48 AM
Rob Biertempfel tweets (http://twitter.com/RobBiertempfel/statuses/12892970151837697) that a source tells him the Pittsburgh Pirates seem to be close to a deal for Kenshin Kawakami. He says that money is one hold up, and that another holdup is when/if Paul Maholm (http://players.piratesprospects.com/2010/02/paul-maholm.html) is dealt. Could be two situations to watch today.

Read more: Pirates Close to Deal for Kawakami? | Pirates Prospects (http://www.piratesprospects.com/2010/12/pirates-close-to-deal-for-kawakami.html#ixzz17d7e8NzL) http://www.piratesprospects.com/2010/12/pirates-close-to-deal-for-kawakami.html#ixzz17d7e8NzL

BPS3akaWirels3
12-14-2010, 02:48 PM
Pirates sign first baseman Lyle Overbay
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
The Pirates have signed free agent first baseman Lyle Overbay to a contract for the 2011 season, General Manager Neal Huntington said today.
"Lyle Overbay is a solid major league player and we expect him to have a positive impact on our club offensively, defensively and in the clubhouse," Huntington said in a statement.
Overbay, 33, a left-handed hitter, has incr



Read more: http://www.postgazette.com/pg/10348/1110690-100.stm#ixzz187Z9qvge


They should have only paid $2.5 million for this guy.. Not worth $5 mil... This will put Jones back in RF and that is a good move. He never looked right at 1B and had too many errors there. It was very tiring to see so many player changes in RF from this past season.

Now on to 3B and SS..

steelerdude15
12-14-2010, 03:28 PM
Sounds like a pretty good pick up. Hopefully he'll play good for us.

X-Terminator
12-14-2010, 03:57 PM
I think it's a pretty good signing, even if he is overpaid a bit. Overbay if anything will provide solid defense at 1st base, and he has a decent stick.

Why do they need a 3B though? Alvarez is there and will probably play every game, barring injury. Neil Walker can back up there if necessary. SS is the more immediate need. I'd also like a legitimate RF, and trade one of Doumit/Jones.

BPS3akaWirels3
12-14-2010, 04:01 PM
I think it's a pretty good signing, even if he is overpaid a bit. Overbay if anything will provide solid defense at 1st base, and he has a decent stick.

Why do they need a 3B though? Alvarez is there and will probably play every game, barring injury. Neil Walker can back up there if necessary. SS is the more immediate need. I'd also like a legitimate RF, and trade one of Doumit/Jones.

We might not if Alvarez can improve on his defense in Spring Training.. Ryan D will be dumped soon enough.. We ain't getting rid of Jones either...

steelerdude15
12-14-2010, 07:27 PM
I think it's a pretty good signing, even if he is overpaid a bit. Overbay if anything will provide solid defense at 1st base, and he has a decent stick.

Why do they need a 3B though? Alvarez is there and will probably play every game, barring injury. Neil Walker can back up there if necessary. SS is the more immediate need. I'd also like a legitimate RF, and trade one of Doumit/Jones.

I'm all up for trading Doumit, he's a weak link for the team. I really like what Jones brings to the team and I would like to see him stay with us and knock some more balls over the wall.

BPS3akaWirels3
12-15-2010, 10:40 AM
Whispers as of last night are Doumit trade to Red Sox's...Here is to hoping this is true..

steelerdude15
12-15-2010, 12:24 PM
Whispers as of last night are Doumit trade to Red Sox's...Here is to hoping this is true..
Why would a team like Boston want Doumit? Maybe for minor league, but why on earth would you want someone like him on the team.

BPS3akaWirels3
12-21-2010, 08:56 AM
The Tigers signed shortstop Argenis Diaz (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/diazar01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), who was non-tendered by the Pirates despite his strong glovework.

The Pirates re-signed Tyler Yates (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/y/yatesty01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), who missed last season as he recovered from Tommy John surgery.

The Nationals announced (http://twitter.com/NatsTownNews/status/16920167208456192) seven signings, including previously unreported contracts for Ryan Mattheus (http://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/player.cgi?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker&id=matthe001rya), Michael Aubrey (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/aubremi01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), and Brian Bixler (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/bixlebr01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker). Mattheus, a 27-year-old right-handed reliever, was acquired by the Nats at the '09 trade deadline in the Joe Beimel (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/beimejo01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) deal, the same month he had Tommy John surgery. His is a Major League deal (http://twitter.com/masnBen/statuses/16931548871790592). Aubrey, drafted 11th overall by the Indians in 2003, hit .235/.310/.495 at Triple-A this year. Bixler, a defensive-minded utility infielder, was acquired by Washington from the Pirates in August.

Pirates Reach Agreement With Josh Fields (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/12/pirates-reach-agreement-with-josh-fields.html)

By Tim Dierkes [December 20, 2010 at 2:22pm CST]
The Pirates reached an agreement on a minor league deal with third baseman Josh Fields (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/fieldjo02.shtml), the team announced on Twitter (http://twitter.com/BucsInsider/statuses/16951443978194944). A spring training invite is included.
Fields, 28, joined Kansas City a year ago in the Mark Teahen (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/t/teahema01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) trade. Hip surgery took up most of his Royals career, though he had 104 interesting pro plate appearances before being non-tendered this month. Beyond the hot corner, he's dabbled at first base and left field.
Fields was drafted 18th overall by the White Sox in 2004 and was once considered a top prospect. He crushed 23 home runs in 418 plate appearances with the Sox in '07, nine of which came in August of that year. Earlier this month (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/12/pirates-sign-fernando-nieve-andy-marte-dusty-brown.html) the Pirates added another former top third base prospect in Andy Marte (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/martean01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), cutting a third one loose in Andy LaRoche (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/larocan01.shtml).


The Pirates have welcomed back Donald Veal (http://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/player.cgi?id=veal--001don) just two weeks after non-tendering (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/donald_veal/) him, Eddy tweets (http://twitter.com/eddymk/status/15145854016950272). Veal underwent Tommy John surgery earlier this year.

steelerdude15
12-28-2010, 01:09 AM
PITTSBURGH -- The Pirates claimed left-hander Aaron Thompson off waivers from the Nationals on Thursday and added infielders Garrett Atkins and Corey Wimberly to the list of non-roster Spring Training invitees.

Read more: http://pittsburgh.pirates.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20101223&content_id=16365360&vkey=news_pit&c_id=pit

steelerdude15
01-18-2011, 10:16 PM
The Pirates today agreed to terms with right-handed relief pitcher Joel Hanrahan on a contract for the 2011 season, avoiding salary arbitration.

The deal is worth $1.4 million.

Hanrahan, 29, went 4-1 with six saves and a 3.62 ERA in a career-high 72 appearances with the Pirates last season. He also struck out a career-high 100 batters while working 69.2 innings.

Read more: http://postgazette.com/pg/11018/1118854-100.stm#ixzz1BS3490bM

Busy night in the 'Burgh for sports. This pick up is a great pick up in my opinion.

X-Terminator
01-19-2011, 01:36 AM
Finally, a good signing, though it should be a multi-year deal. Hanrahan earned it last year.

steelerdude15
01-19-2011, 02:18 PM
Finally, a good signing, though it should be a multi-year deal. Hanrahan earned it last year.
Let's just hope he plays well this upcoming year.

BPS3akaWirels3
01-19-2011, 06:49 PM
Let's just hope he plays well this upcoming year.

He will...

BPS3akaWirels3
01-19-2011, 06:54 PM
Pirates To Sign Jose Veras (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/01/pirates-to-sign-jose-veras.html)

By Zach Links [January 16, 2011 at 6:00pm CST]
The Pirates have agreed to sign Jose Veras (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/verasjo01.shtml) to a minor league deal, according to Enrique Rojas of ESPNDeportes.com (http://espndeportes.espn.go.com/news/story?id=1208264&s=bei&type=story) (Spanish link). The reliever will earn a base of $1MM plus incentives if he makes the big league roster, Rojas tweets (http://twitter.com/Enrique_Rojas1/status/26790503848611842). Otherwise, the veteran will make $15K each month in the minors.


Pirates Sign Jorge Julio (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/01/pirates-sign-jorge-julio.html)

By Nick Collias [January 10, 2011 at 12:17pm CST]
After a strong winter in Venezuela, reliever Jorge Julio (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/j/juliojo01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) has signed a minor league contract with the Pirates and received an invitation to Spring Training, reports César Augusto Márquez at the Venezuelan newspaper Lider en Deportes (http://www.liderendeportes.com/Noticias/Beisbol/Jorge-Julio-cuadro-chamba-con-los-Piratas.aspx) (link in Spanish). However, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports that the Pirates did not invite the pitcher to Spring Training (Twitter (http://twitter.com/RobBiertempfel/status/24545399473700864) link).




The Pirates signed catcher Wyatt Toregas (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/t/toregwy01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) to a minor league contract with an invitation Spring Training according to a team press release. The 28-year-old spent the 2010 season in the Indians' farm system, hitting .227/.311/.383 in 148 plate appearances

steelpride12
02-01-2011, 05:40 PM
Anyone go to the 2011 Pirate Fest this last weekend or am I the only person who would spend money on that LOL?

BPS3akaWirels3
02-01-2011, 05:59 PM
Anyone go to the 2011 Pirate Fest this last weekend or am I the only person who would spend money on that LOL?

I was going to go and I even called Cakimaki to see if he wanted to go but it snowed Fri/Sat and I didn't want to drive in it 4 hrs..

steelpride12
02-01-2011, 06:05 PM
I was going to go and I even called Cakimaki to see if he wanted to go but it snowed Fri/Sat and I didn't want to drive in it 4 hrs..
Awe damn that's a shame man it was a lot of fun and a record crowd showed up there for sure.

BPS3akaWirels3
02-06-2011, 09:46 PM
Make Or Break Year: Ryan Doumit (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/01/make-or-break-year-ryan-doumit.html)

By Mark Polishuk [February 2, 2011 at 6:43pm CST]
http://rotoauthority.blogs.com/.a/6a00d834515b9a69e20148c8369b6c970c-350wi (http://rotoauthority.blogs.com/.a/6a00d834515b9a69e20148c8369b6c970c-pi)It's hard to imagine a scenario that would keep Ryan Doumit (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/doumiry01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) in a Pirates uniform past the 2011 season. Even if Doumit had a Jose Bautista (http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?search=Jose+Bautista&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker)-esque massive breakout next year, it would only hasten his depature from PNC Park, since the Bucs would jump at the chance to acquire some prospects for a suddenly-valuable asset.
Why is Doumit's future in Pittsburgh so dim? Doumit signed a three-year, $11.5MM extension (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2008/12/doumit-gets-thr.html) following an impressive 2008 season that saw the catcher post a .318/.357/.501 slash line in 465 plate appearances. Since then, however, Doumit has been beset by injuries and has only managed a .728 OPS in 760 plate appearances over the last two seasons.
Doumit has club options worth $7.25MM in 2012 and $8.25MM in 2013, and the Pirates must decide on both options at once following this season. It's a no-brainer that Pittsburgh will take the $500K buyout rather than exercise the two options, given Doumit's struggles and durability issues since 2008. The Pirates have already been openly shopping the switch-hitter this winter (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/12/pirates-rumors-colon-amezaga.html) and last (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2009/12/pirates-have-discussed-capps-doumit.html), and have offered to pay a healthy chunk of Doumit's salary, but no takers have been found.
The challenge for Doumit in 2011 is to both stay healthy and to play well enough to impress his next team. Even if Doumit avoids the DL next year, though, playing time could be hard to come by for the 29-year-old despite his experience at three positions. Garrett Jones (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/j/jonesga02.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) and Matt Diaz (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/diazma02.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) comprise a lefty-righty platoon in right field, Lyle Overbay (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/o/overbly01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) will start most days at first base (with right-handed hitting Steve Pearce (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/pearcst01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) as the top backup) and Chris Snyder (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/snydech02.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) is slated to catch.
Doumit's best chance at playing time is a platoon with Snyder. Doumit has a .796 career OPS against right-handed pitching, including an .832 OPS against righties last year. (Snyder's career OPS against righties is just .687.) The downside to that plan is Doumit's career-long defensive struggles as a catcher, which is why the Pirates tried him at other positions in the first place.
When it comes to a catcher with pop, however, most teams are willing to overlook defensive problems on a short-term basis, especially for a catcher that can hit right-handed pitching. A catcher-needy team could make a move for Doumit at the trade deadline, and for Doumit's sake, an AL team would be the best option so he could get off the field and pick up a few DH at-bats.
Doumit is too much of a defensive liability to be an everyday catcher and a .796 OPS against right-handers isn't enough to sustain a full-time job at first base or in right field either. Doumit's future is likely as a platoon or bench option, but if he hits well next season, he should have no trouble finding a Major League contract in 2012 given his multi-positional experience and solid bat from the left side of the plate.


I SOOOO want number 41 gone... He is junk..

BPS3akaWirels3
02-06-2011, 09:49 PM
The perception around the league is that the Pirates have been willing to talk about trading Paul Maholm (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/maholpa01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker). The left-hander is likely a year away from free agency, so the Pirates could shop him if they aren't interested in keeping him. Maholm earns $5.75MM this year and after the season the Pirates can exercise a $9.75MM buyout for 2012 or pay a $750K buyout.

I hope he stays.. He was one of the few shining stars for our starting line-up last year. Him and Mcdonald..

steelpride12
02-06-2011, 10:06 PM
You know Doumit looked strong in 08 and thought he could be a great starter to come, but he is on the DL every season and just has not been productive since that year. He will be gone because Snyder can catch and looks good at the plate he is a huge improvement over Doumit.

Would sure be dumb to get rid of Maholm because he is one our best in our rising rotation, Mcdonald like you said will be a star I know it, he was impressive in his short stint last season and hopefully Correria and Olsen can finally get us the winning rotation the bucs need.

I got tickets row A woo for the second game of the season the Friday game against the Rockies, woo GO BUCS!

BPS3akaWirels3
02-07-2011, 07:49 PM
You know Doumit looked strong in 08 and thought he could be a great starter to come, but he is on the DL every season and just has not been productive since that year. He will be gone because Snyder can catch and looks good at the plate he is a huge improvement over Doumit.

Would sure be dumb to get rid of Maholm because he is one our best in our rising rotation, Mcdonald like you said will be a star I know it, he was impressive in his short stint last season and hopefully Correria and Olsen can finally get us the winning rotation the bucs need.

I got tickets row A woo for the second game of the season the Friday game against the Rockies, woo GO BUCS!

You can count me in buddy.. I soooo can't wait..

X-Terminator
02-07-2011, 08:03 PM
I'd rather they keep Maholm myself. He is about as average as it gets, but he can eat up innings and keep you in most games. Problem for him is that he has too many big innings where he gives up a bunch of runs after pitching well for most of the game. Still though, if he can get back to his 2009 form, it would be a good bargain to keep him around for another year.

I thought about buying some tickets this year, but dismissed it. I'm sticking to my guns that I will not pay to go to any games until ownership starts spending money to put a winner on the field. The only way you'll see me in PNC Park this season is if someone gave me tickets.

BPS3akaWirels3
02-07-2011, 08:46 PM
I'd rather they keep Maholm myself. He is about as average as it gets, but he can eat up innings and keep you in most games. Problem for him is that he has too many big innings where he gives up a bunch of runs after pitching well for most of the game. Still though, if he can get back to his 2009 form, it would be a good bargain to keep him around for another year.

I thought about buying some tickets this year, but dismissed it. I'm sticking to my guns that I will not pay to go to any games until ownership starts spending money to put a winner on the field. The only way you'll see me in PNC Park this season is if someone gave me tickets.

What if I buy you a ticket or two?? Will you go thennnnn??

steelpride12
02-07-2011, 10:07 PM
I'd rather they keep Maholm myself. He is about as average as it gets, but he can eat up innings and keep you in most games. Problem for him is that he has too many big innings where he gives up a bunch of runs after pitching well for most of the game. Still though, if he can get back to his 2009 form, it would be a good bargain to keep him around for another year.

I thought about buying some tickets this year, but dismissed it. I'm sticking to my guns that I will not pay to go to any games until ownership starts spending money to put a winner on the field. The only way you'll see me in PNC Park this season is if someone gave me tickets.
Well do what I do and pay much cheaper over stubhub, where I pay around $2-5 a ticket for excellent seats and in a way it's like you won't feel so bad because your not directly buying from the Pirates and Nutting, COME ON X-T!

X-Terminator
02-08-2011, 08:25 PM
Well do what I do and pay much cheaper over stubhub, where I pay around $2-5 a ticket for excellent seats and in a way it's like you won't feel so bad because your not directly buying from the Pirates and Nutting, COME ON X-T!

I won't even buy through Stubhub, because they are MLB's official reseller and Bobby Nutjob gets a cut from the contract they signed. If BPS really does buy me a ticket, I'll consider it.

BPS3akaWirels3
02-08-2011, 10:06 PM
I won't even buy through Stubhub, because they are MLB's official reseller and Bobby Nutjob gets a cut from the contract they signed. If BPS really does buy me a ticket, I'll consider it.

I'll hold you to it then.. :) We can all make a day of it.. Yeah...

steelpride12
02-08-2011, 10:52 PM
Ill buy you one as well for a game seriously!

cakmakli
02-12-2011, 10:28 AM
Looks like there is going to be a crowd at the Park this year :)

BPS3akaWirels3
02-12-2011, 10:45 AM
Looks like there is going to be a crowd at the Park this year :)

ahah... Sounds like it..

steelpride12
02-12-2011, 05:47 PM
Looks like there is going to be a crowd at the Park this year :)
I sure hope so! :)

BPS3akaWirels3
02-12-2011, 05:55 PM
The Pirates have both received and sent out some "feelers" about Ryan Doumit (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/doumiry01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker), writes Colin Dunlap of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11041/1124524-63.stm) as part of a chat with fans. Dunlap thinks teams want to make sure Doumit is healthy during Spring Training before seriously pursuing the catcher/first baseman. I recently looked at how Doumit's 2011 season is a make-or-break (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/01/make-or-break-year-ryan-doumit.html) campaign.

Ohlendorf Beats Pirates In Arbitration Hearing (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/02/ohlendorf-beats-pirates-in-arbitration-hearing.html)

By Ben Nicholson-Smith [February 9, 2011 at 10:52am CST]
Ross Ohlendorf (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/o/ohlenro01.shtml?utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker&utm_campaign=Linker) won just one game last year, but it didn't take him long to pick up his first victory of 2011. The right-hander beat the Pirates in arbitration, MLBTR has learned. Ohlendorf will earn $2.025MM instead of the $1.4MM salary the Pirates had offered.
Ohlendorf, a super two player, posted a 4.07 ERA with 6.6 K/9 and 3.7 BB/9 to go along with his 1-11 record last year. The 28-year-old has a 4.40 ERA in 354 big league innings with the Pirates and Yankees. He set himself up for higher future salaries by beating the Pirates, who have now come to terms with all of their arbitration eligible players.


I think Ohlendorf should go back to interning for the USAG.... Dude should use his brain and not hands anymore... Oh and he can take number 41 with him..

X-Terminator
02-13-2011, 12:11 AM
Well, if you guys really are offering free tickets, then I will go. But I'm bringing my own food into the park, so that I won't have to buy any of their concessions, and will park at one of the downtown garages and walk to the park. Like I said, they get not one thin dime out of me for anything, not even parking.

cakmakli
02-13-2011, 07:20 AM
Well, if you guys really are offering free tickets, then I will go. But I'm bringing my own food into the park, so that I won't have to buy any of their concessions, and will park at one of the downtown garages and walk to the park. Like I said, they get not one thin dime out of me for anything, not even parking.

That's the way I always do it. I love walking across the Clemente Bridge on game day and I'm too cheap not to bring my own food.

steelpride12
02-13-2011, 08:44 AM
Well, if you guys really are offering free tickets, then I will go. But I'm bringing my own food into the park, so that I won't have to buy any of their concessions, and will park at one of the downtown garages and walk to the park. Like I said, they get not one thin dime out of me for anything, not even parking.
I park all the way on Grant hahaha! It's only $5 and a relaxing walk at night. Sometimes if Im lazy Ill park at the casino or science center. If I buy you a ticket you are forced to buy and wear a foam finger and wave it all game!

BPS3akaWirels3
02-13-2011, 09:17 AM
That's the way I always do it. I love walking across the Clemente Bridge on game day and I'm too cheap not to bring my own food.

I thought I saw a box of wine in your jacket the one time.. Nice.. :)

BPS3akaWirels3
02-13-2011, 09:20 AM
Well, if you guys really are offering free tickets, then I will go. But I'm bringing my own food into the park, so that I won't have to buy any of their concessions, and will park at one of the downtown garages and walk to the park. Like I said, they get not one thin dime out of me for anything, not even parking.

So I must be the anti-christ since I pay $15 to park in front of the stadium, pay close to $40 for food and usually spend $30 on a shirt... ahah.. Oh well.. I enjoy it.


And yes I will see about tickets for 4-5 of us. I'll make sure to get the outfield bench seats so we don't feel like we gave the farm away to nutjob..