The Pirates provided fans around baseball with some midseason excitement before fading in August and September and finishing with a 72-90 mark. GM Neal Huntington knows the next step is sustaining success into September and beyond, but getting there is a definite challenge. Here are some updates on Huntington’s Pirates from the Milwaukee GM Meetings…
- The Pirates moved quickly on Rod Barajas because they believe he can add power and work with the Pittsburgh pitching staff at an affordable price, Huntington said.
- Plus, the Pirates considered the catching market to be "very weak." They recently signed Barajas to a one-year, $4MM deal that includes a club option for 2013.
- The Pirates may discuss a new deal with Ronny Cedeno and his representatives, Peter E. Greenberg & Associates. Pittsburgh declined its $3MM option on the shortstop after the World Series, making him a free agent. The Pirates also appear to have interest in Ramon Santiago.
Every time I read “Ronny Cedeno” I think Roger Cedeno and cringe a little.
Every time I read “Ronny Cedeno” I think Ronny Cedeno and cringe a little.
They should definitely bring Ronny back. He doesn’t deserve all the hate that he gets.
Agreed, he was starting to improve and his defense was very strong as the season went on. Better than Santiago or D’Arnund if they use him.
Second!!
He was one of the better defensive shortstops last season. It also seems like he has the potential to be a streaky power “gap” hitter, which is a luxury considering his position.
bring don kelly back to pittsburgh.
Don Kelly isnt even a f/a.
the buccos got some pop with rod at least
Ian Oquendo/Snell/WhoeverHeIsThisMonth was much worse than Ronny. (also: apples and oranges)
Also – it’s a screen name, fer cryin’ out loud.
(in reply to Matt Zolan – sorry, reply fail.)
i don’t like cedeno, but he DID seem to get a lot of 2 out clutch hits last season for some reason
He’s been a veteran his whole career.
Right on, Larry. Your assessment was spot on!
Maybe Barajas can also serve as a mentor to Tony Sanchez.
Yes. Have you ever heard him talk? He’s so full of himself.