What's Happening?
The Pittsburgh Pirates are navigating significant challenges following the MLB trade deadline, particularly concerning their bullpen. General Manager Ben Cherington's decision to trade closer David Bednar and third baseman Ke'Bryan Hayes has left the team without an established closer. The Pirates are exploring internal options, including Dennis Santana, Isaac Mattson, and Braxton Ashcraft, to fill the role. The team is conducting a two-month tryout to identify a reliable closer, with the possibility of seeking external candidates in the offseason.
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Why It's Important?
The Pirates' bullpen situation is critical as they approach the stretch run of the season. The absence of a dependable closer could affect their performance and playoff prospects. The team's ability to find a solution internally or through free agency will be pivotal in maintaining competitiveness. The decisions made during this period could have long-term implications for the team's roster and strategy, influencing their success in future seasons.
What's Next?
The Pirates will continue evaluating their bullpen options over the next two months. If internal candidates fail to meet expectations, the team may pursue established closers in free agency, with several notable names potentially available. The outcome of this evaluation period will shape the Pirates' offseason strategy and their approach to building a competitive team for the next season.
