TBB Idea #7: Smart Invites for Spring Training
We all know that the Buccos are not going to be big players in the free agent market, and even if the front office is able to pull big deals together, many of the acquired players will not be major league ready. Aside from low-level minor leaguers looking to get some more early work in, spring training invites give players a chance to redeem themselves and their names. A superb spring could help a veteran take back his claim to fame, or even aid a journeyman in finding a home.
Recent invites have included Doug Mientkiewicz, who became a critical part of the Pirates ball club in 2008. Others, like Byung-Hyun Kim and Jaret Wright, were faulty and eventually sent back the same way they came. Nonetheless, gold can be found within the deep regions of the minor and major league free agent market, and only a strong management team will be able to find those treasures.
I have created a list for those few players that should be invited to the Pirates Spring Training camp in February. Unfortunately, I have only had time to examine the available major league free agents, and not include any unsigned minor leaguers.
Here it is:
Kris Benson: The Burgh is in search of a veteran starter that can help to secure a solid five-man rotation. That fifth man can possibly come out of a spring training invite, with many vets out there hoping to prolong their careers. Benson, 34, is one of those players who have suffered through his share of injuries. He last pitched for the Orioles back in 2006, earning a 11-12 record in Baltimore. Benson was a Buccaneer for two years earlier in his career, and had a good 2000 campaign (217 IP, 184 K, 3.86 ERA).
Shawn Chacon: Who doesn't love this Alaskan-born hurler/future WWE star? Not only is he this writer's favorite player, but he also was a very versatile pitcher for Bucs in 2007. From what I have been hearing, the fans and the front office would welcome in Chacon with open arms... but of course, careful to protect their necks.
Miguel Cairo: Cairo is career utility man whose best season came back in 2004 with the Yankees, where he hit .292/.346/.417. He can play every position in the infield and is pretty strong defensively at each. Last year, he played 108 games for the Seattle Mariners and put up a .249 average.
Matt Clement: Clement used to be part of the Kerry Wood and Mark Prior train back in Chicago, but all he ever picked up from them was a list full of arm problems. He threw for Boston in 2005-2006, but has not been the same pitcher since his days with the Cubs. In 2002, Clement struck out a high total of 215 batters in one of his rare healthy seasons. When off the DL, Clement could be a powerful third starter in any (NL) rotation.
Mark Prior: The Carl Pavano of the National League. Prior (amazingly enough) is only 28, but has missed more action than almost any other player in the last three years. His stardom was brought forth after going 18-6 with the Cubs in 2003, helping the team to secure a playoff berth. Unfortunately, he hasn't seen 30 starts in a season since then. What could the Bucs get from a healthy Mark Prior? Who knows, the world has never seen one.
Sidney Ponson: Ponson has not been a good major league pitcher in five seasons, yet the righty was still able to make 25 starts in 2008. He went 8-5 with stints in Texas and New York, but had an atrocious K/BB of 48/58. His ERA has taken a hit since moving from San Francisco to the American League, but moving back to a team like the 'rats could definitely help. He went 17-13 that year with the Giants, and had a nice 1.26 WHIP.
Richie Sexson: I have already discussed the possibility of bringing on Richie Sexson, but repetition never hurts. Sexson could be a very good cheap, power option. He hits from the right side of the plate, and can play both first and the outfield. Both the Mariners and the Yanks couldn't take Sexson's struggles for very long, but the man has hit 67 homers in three years.
Daryle Ward: Ward struggled last season, but has consistently been a popular bench option. Ward still holds the record for longest homerun ever hit at PNC Park, so you know the guy is a fan favorite. He knows the city. He knows the people. If he performs well in March, sign Mr. Daryle up.
That concludes our "Offseason Ideas" this year for the Pittsburgh Pirates. May God help this struggling franchise, because Dave Littlefield sure didn't.
Matt Clement could be interesting. He wasn't what we thoguht he would be here in Boston, but I think you're right - if he's healthy he might do well.
Julia
http://werbiefitz.mlblogs.com/
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I didn't realize that Mark Proir had been invited by the Pirates. I wish he could have pitched for the Padres, but hopefully he can have a good spring with you guys!
http://kaybee.mlblogs.com
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I think Chacon is good. He will get to face plenty of his former team: the Astros. He will have additional incentive to beat them.
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Thanks everyone. Kaybee, Prior hasn't signed anything yet. These are just smart options the team (or any team) could make to bring on some guys for Spring Training. It's likely Prior could try again at a chance in San Diego, but he is till out there for Pittsburgh.
I will be discussing multiple rumors about SS Jack Wilson later today. Be sure to check in.
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If you want to do things right first of all to get things started- 1. Take the best package for Jack Wilson you should have taken Jair Jurrjens at the July 31st deadline in 07.
Step 2- Get rid of the crapola on the roster - Steve Pearce he's nothing more then a quad A guy. Which leaves a roster spot open for ex Indians Prospect Jordan Brown for the Pirates to pick up at first base leave Adam K. LaRoche walk his 7 or 8 million for his lifetime .179 production in April is atrocious he doesn't really start hitting until June after he has cost 10 to 12 wins with his whiffs and killing innings. Brown is more of a contact hitter which the Pirates need. Use the Rule 5 draft to get some talent keep it on the roster cause the Pirates still wont be competitive next year anyways.
Step 3- Youth in the outfield the outfield next year with no questions should be- Nyjer Morgan, Nate Mclouth , Andrew McCutchen - have those 3 in the outfield brings another element in which the Pirates need in the lineup S P E E D. Pirates will never get the big basher in here unless they spend their money wisely and draft that guy or two guys.
So turn on the burners in 09. Work on getting the OBP up.
Now last - Free Agency off the list of guys we could use 2 names are coming to the forefront- Mark Prior(incentive laden contract) and bench utilty Miguel Cairo - two needs for this club. Another Cheap starter and a bench guy with some versality. Dougie M for third or Mark Loretta or Freddy Sanchez pick or choose.
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