Sports Illustrated: Pirates Have Failed To Hold Up Their End Of Bargain
PITTSBURGH (93-7 The FAN) - It has been noted time and time again around here that the Pirates haven't been very active on the free agent market while also losing key players from their playoff run last year. Now, Sports Illustrated is weighing in with a not-so-favorable opinion saying that the Pirates have failed to hold up their end of the bargain.
Cliff Corcoran of Sports Illustrated points out the key departures and arrivals for the team, and calls the Pirates biggest arrival of starting pitcher Edinson Volquez "disconcerting."
He adds that Volquez would have been a very good addition if he was an afterthought sort of move, but as the key addition for this team, it's not what you'd typically be looking for.
Corcoran admits that the Pirates' offseason has been complicated by A.J. Burnett not making his mind up yet, but says it's no excuse for their inaction.
When it comes to areas they still need to improve, Corcoran says the team knew they needed to get better at first base and right field with the departures of Marlon Byrd and Justin Morneau, but have done nothing and are now left with less than ideal options at those positions.
In the end, Corcoran gives the Pirates an "F" grade for their offseason moves.
What has been a bright spot for the Pirates this offseason has been their minor league talent, and one of their top prospects, Jameson Taillon, joined Bob Pompeani this weekend to talk about his expectations for the upcoming season.
For continuing coverage of the Pirates offseason, stay tuned to 93-7 The FAN.
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