Pittsburgh Pirates faced with competition over the pursuit of starting pitchers – MLB News
When the Winter Meetings commenced, the Pittsburgh Pirates were reported to be in the pursuit of at least a couple of pitchers for the rotation. However, since the demand and supply would see a widening gap due to the massive interest shown by other teams, the Bucs seem to be with limited options now.
The financial constraints have put the Pirates in a relatively difficult position with regards to their ability to acquire quality starters. In the presence of the Texas Rangers and Los Angeles Dodgers, who are willing to invest big sums of money for big acquisitions, the Pirates have a lot to consider.
"When we got here, we said we were never going to win the back pages of the offseason," said Neal Huntington. "A lot of clubs in markets like us are not going to make the big splash in the offseason or during the Winter Meetings."
But that does not take away the other options. The pursuit shall continue – albeit differently. The Pirates' general manager has a realistic appraisal of what needs to be done to have a winning team.
He does not attribute the success to bringing in a pitcher or two. Rather, in his view, it is a long process. That is what actually counts the most at this point in time.
Making quick ascension in the first half of the season this year, the Pirates seemed all set to make it to the post-season games. However, the second half of the season was disappointing wherein the team finished fourth.
Next year, however, the Bucs want to put together a group of players ready to embrace any challenge coming their way. That is what the general manager also alluded to while talking about it.
The general manager said, "The goal is to put together the best club and play meaningful games in September and playoff games in October. It may not happen today: I don't think any single move is going to make it all happen. It's a process, and we have to stay true to the process."
As to what the Pirates’ next move in the Winter Meetings will be is something to be seen with keen interest.
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