Pittsburgh Pirates Wake-Up Call – Do the Pirates Need any More Upgrades?

In our daily Wake-Up Call, we get you ready for the day with a complete look at all things Pittsburgh Pirates.

Once spring training gets underway, the off-season basically comes to an end, as most teams don’t make any more significant signings or trades. So is it safe to say that the Pirates are done adding to their team?

I wonder this because last year, on March 11th, the Pirates signed David Freese to a one-year deal. At that time, we had thought that the Pirates were done adding to the team too. But they weren’t, and Freese has ended up being a significant piece of the team since that point. Recently, we’ve also heard that the Pirates displayed interest in former Giant Angel Pagan, who is coming off a decent season and could be an upgrade to the bench. Knowing all of this, will they, and should the Pirates try to make one or two final upgrades to the roster?

Right now, the Pirates could use an upgrade to the back of the bullpen. I’m not sure that I want Wade LeBlanc in that final spot. A.J. Schugel probably deserves that spot more, but even he has a lot to prove. Maybe a more proven, veteran presence would be good on the back-end. After all, Schuge will eventually get to return to the majors. Poor performances and injuries always happen.

But why would the Pirates pursue Angel Pagan? Would they cut ties with Phil Gosselin? Or would they send Frazier down to the minors? I agree that a veteran presence, like with the bullpen, would be good for the bench. I’d personally like Pagan and Frazier over Gosselin and Frazier, but Frazier should start the year in the majors.

I think the Pirates are done bringing in players to compete for the 25-man roster. But they’ve made late splashes before. If a move for a veteran bullpen arm comes before Opening Day, I wouldn’t be surprised.

Baseball Talk Around the Web

• The USA has a good chance of doing well in the World Baseball Classic. Dave Schoenfield of ESPN details how the US can survive group play and get to the finals.
• And if you missed this fantastic article from Adam Berry of MLB.com the other day, you have to check it out. He talks about Trevor Williams‘ dad and how he is currently in remission after being given not much time left to live. It’s a must-read to say the least.

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