The Pittsburgh Pirates roster that could have been

THE OUTFIELD:

LF: Starling Marte

CF: Andrew McCutchen

RF: Gregory Polanco

Were you expecting someone else?  Gregory Polanco was rewarded with a five-year contract extension right at the start of the season, and he has rewarded the Pirates with a lightning hot start to the 2016 season.  Much to the chagrin of fans last year, Polanco experienced significant growing pains.  The Pirates showed a patient approach, even when some fans were calling for Josh Harrison to replace him.  Polanco has responded by showing a more patient approach at the plate.  At no point in his career has Polanco walked more in a month than he struck out.  That could change this April if his 9/13 K/BB ratio continues to favor the free pass.

One other person that gets the free pass for his April performance is Andrew McCutchen.  The former MVP has struggled mightily this season so far, as the trend indicates below.

Of course, that will change, and once McCutchen gets it going, the dream outfield will be terrifying for opposing pitchers.  I broke down why he could be even more dangerous than ever this season, and that opinion still remains the same, despite the ice cold start.  We also decided to keep him in center field, which we debated this spring, mainly since the Pirates have stuck with him in center.  Marte continues to grow and be one of the most undervalued players in baseball.  At the end of the day, this section was a no-brainer, so let’s move on to the bench.

Outfield Total: $17,076,666

Roster Total: $33,901,666

Click here to take a look at the bench.