The Pirates have won just one of Paul Maholm's eight starts this year, but the left-hander and his 3.60 ERA aren't to blame. Pittsburgh has averaged 1.5 runs per game with Maholm on the hill, including last night's shutout at the hands of the Dodgers. Here's the latest on the Pirates…
- Jim Bowden of ESPN.com explains that he believes the Pirates should move now to lock Andrew McCutchen long term. Since McCutchen hasn't fully realized his potential, the Pirates could save on an extension and pay him Justin Upton money ($51.25MMM) instead of Carlos Gonzalez money ($80MM). Plus, it would be a positive for fans and other players, Bowden argues. The Pirates have discussed a long-term deal with their center fielder and hope to sign him for five years or more.
- Tim Dierkes says he expects a six-year deal for McCutchen, who probably won't have to settle for less than $52MM.
- Pirates prospect Luis Heredia is just 16 years old, but he looks closer to 20, according to Bill Conlin of the Philadelphia Daily News. The right-hander retired rehabbing catcher Carlos Ruiz in extended Spring Training, much to the delight of his mother.
- John Grupp of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review chronicles Jose Ascanio's long path back to the Pirates roster. The right-hander, who was acquired as part of the 2009 Tom Gorzelanny trade, is back in Pittsburgh after a two-year absence.
Dave Gershman… still feel confident with your denard span type contract for Mccutchen ??
boom. roasted
The Ascanio trade was a disaster, and the Pirates aren’t going to get anything out of him or Kevin Hart. Gorzo would look good in the rotation right now, that’s for sure.
I think the rotation looks just fine this year!!!
They never gave Gorz a fair shot, I think he played a half season under the new regime when he clearly wasn’t healthy and they just dumped him. He’s not a stud or anything but has been a little above average the past year and a half.
What about Josh Harrison? I’m not sure where he ranks among Pirates prospects other than he’s not in the Top 10, but all the guy does is hit. He’s never hit under .300 at any level and currently owns an .892 OPS down at AAA.
I think the knocks on Harrison were his lack of power and poor defense, but maybe he can put it together and earn a promotion this year.
Ascanio deserves a chance to prove himself. He’s worked hard to make a comeback and he’s earned the right to show what he can do.