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Pirates Bullpen Woes: Deadline Fix Needed?
9 Jun
Summary
- Pirates bullpen is a major weakness with a 4.14 ERA.
- Aroldis Chapman and Garrett Whitlock are potential trade targets.
- Pirates aim for postseason, their first since 2015.
The Pittsburgh Pirates face a critical juncture with the MLB trade deadline looming in under two months. Currently holding a 34-32 record, their bullpen has emerged as a major weakness, ranking fifth worst in the National League with a 4.14 ERA. This deficiency must be addressed for the Pirates to contend seriously.
ESPN insider Jeff Passan notes the Pirates' need for "another power arm" in the bullpen, despite having high-octane options like Gregory Soto and Mason Montgomery. Reports indicate the Pirates are aggressively pursuing relief pitching, with Aroldis Chapman of the Boston Red Sox being a frequently rumored target. Chapman has demonstrated dominant form recently, boasting a 0.46 ERA over 19.2 innings.
Another potential target for the Pirates is Red Sox reliever Garrett Whitlock, who has a 3.20 ERA and is expected to return from a knee injury soon. While the article also mentions Ryan Jeffers as a potential catcher acquisition, the primary focus remains on acquiring bullpen arms. The Pirates' ultimate goal is to make the postseason, which would be their first appearance since 2015.
