As the 2024 MLB trade deadline approaches, the Pirates have opted to make a serious attempt at reaching the postseason. However, with mid-August nearing, they struggle to surpass a .500 record. While their roster is nearly finalized, there are still a handful of players who may need replacement due to underperformance. These three Pirates face the possibility of not being on the active roster by the end of August.
Ji Hwan Bae
Despite several hitters landing on the injured list, it’s critical for the Pirates to find a way to remove Ji Hwan Bae from their lineup. Throughout much of this season, offensive production has plummeted, and Bae’s presence in the lineup has only compounded this issue. To make matters worse, his performance in right field hasn’t been up to par either.
In his 18 games played this season, Bae holds a disappointing .191 batting average alongside a .264 on-base percentage and just .213 in slugging percentage. He has driven in merely four runs with his only extra-base hit being limited to one double. His strikeout rate is alarmingly high at 28.6%, while his wRC+ sits at an unflattering career-low of 38.
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Three Pittsburgh Pirates Players Likely to Face Roster Cuts Before August Ends
The Pittsburgh Pirates have had a rollercoaster 2023 season, filled with highs and lows, surprises, and challenges. As the team looks to solidify its roster for the final stretch of the season, several players are under scrutiny. Here, we’ll discuss three Pirates players who are likely to face roster cuts before August ends, along with insights into their performance and potential replacements.
1. Player Analysis: Kevin Newman
Infielder Kevin Newman has been a staple of the Pirates’ infield, but his performance this season raises questions about his future with the team. While Newman has shown flashes of his potential, his recent struggles at the plate have made him a candidate for a roster cut.
Performance Overview
Newman’s batting average has dipped significantly, and he has struggled to find consistency. Here are some key statistics:
| Category | 2023 Stats |
|---|---|
| Batting Average | .215 |
| On-Base Percentage | .280 |
| RBIs | 25 |
Reasons for Potential Cut
- Declining Offensive Production: Newman’s inability to contribute offensively has hurt the Pirates, especially in critical situations.
- Depth of Infield Talent: With the emergence of younger players and prospects, the Pirates may opt for players who can provide better offensive support.
- Contract Status: Newman is eligible for arbitration, making him a financial consideration for the team.
2. Player Analysis: Mitch Keller
Despite being a promising pitcher in the past, Mitch Keller has had a tumultuous season. His inconsistency on the mound has put him under the microscope as the Pirates evaluate their pitching rotation.
Performance Overview
Keller’s numbers tell a story of missed opportunities. Below is a snapshot of his current season:
| Category | 2023 Stats |
|---|---|
| Earned Run Average (ERA) | 5.63 |
| Innings Pitched | 120 |
| Strikeouts | 95 |
Reasons for Potential Cut
- Inconsistent Performance: Keller has struggled to maintain his form, leading to ineffective outings that have cost the team crucial games.
- Injury Concerns: Keller has dealt with injuries that raise concerns over his ability to contribute in the final stretch of the season.
- Upcoming Prospects: The Pirates have a strong pool of young pitchers ready to make their mark, potentially pushing Keller off the roster.
3. Player Analysis: Tyler Heineman
Catcher Tyler Heineman has seen limited action this season, primarily serving as a backup. His role has not significantly impacted the team, making him a candidate for roster cuts as the Pirates look to strengthen their lineup.
Performance Overview
Heineman’s contributions have been minimal, and his batting stats reflect this:
| Category | 2023 Stats |
|---|---|
| Batting Average | .175 |
| On-Base Percentage | .225 |
| Games Played | 38 |
Reasons for Potential Cut
- Limited Offensive Output: As a catcher, Heineman’s numbers are below the league average, and the Pirates may seek more offense from this position.
- Development of Younger Catchers: The Pirates have several catching prospects who could provide better production and defense.
- Team Depth: With the return of key players from injury, the team may look to optimize the roster by cutting players who are not major contributors.
Potential Replacement Options
Infielder Candidates
If the Pirates decide to cut Newman, they have several options to fill the gap:
- Oneil Cruz: Cruz has displayed impressive power and speed, making him an exciting option for the infield.
- Rodolfo Castro: Castro has shown promise in his performances, showcasing the ability to play multiple positions.
Pitcher Candidates
Should Keller be released, the Pirates might consider the following pitchers:
- Quinn Priester: A top prospect, Priester has been dominant in the minor leagues and could provide much-needed depth to the rotation.
- Mike Burrows: Burrows has also had a strong season in the minors and could be a valuable addition to the pitching staff.
Catcher Candidates
If Heineman is let go, the Pirates have promising catchers they can call up:
- Henry Davis: A highly touted prospect, Davis has the potential to become a cornerstone player for the franchise.
- Endy Rodríguez: Rodríguez has shown versatility and a strong bat, making him an attractive option for the Pirates.
Conclusion
The Pittsburgh Pirates face crucial decisions as the end of August approaches, with potential roster cuts looming. Players like Kevin Newman, Mitch Keller, and Tyler Heineman may find their spots at risk due to their performance this season. The organization must weigh their options carefully, considering both current performance and future potential. Keeping an eye on the prospects could lead to exciting changes for the Pirates in the coming weeks.
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