What's Happening?
The Pittsburgh Pirates are navigating significant challenges following the MLB trade deadline. 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 now relying on Dennis Santana, Isaac Mattson, and Braxton Ashcraft to fill the role, with all three players under team control for at least another season. The team's bullpen performance will be crucial in the coming months, as they assess internal options and consider potential free-agent signings for the offseason. Notable free agents could include Edwin Diaz, Ryan Helsley, Devin Williams, Aroldis Chapman, and Kenley Jansen.
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Why It's Important?
The Pirates' bullpen situation is critical as it could impact their performance in the stretch run of the season. The absence of a reliable closer might affect their ability to secure wins in tight games, potentially influencing their standings and playoff chances. The decisions made now could also shape the team's strategy in the offseason, affecting their financial commitments and roster composition. The outcome of this bullpen trial period will determine whether the Pirates need to invest in a high-profile closer, which could have long-term implications for the team's competitiveness and financial flexibility.
What's Next?
The Pirates will continue to evaluate their bullpen options over the next two months. If internal candidates do not meet expectations, the team may pursue a closer in the free-agent market. This decision will likely depend on the performance of Santana, Mattson, and Ashcraft, as well as the availability and cost of potential free-agent signings. The team's management will need to balance immediate needs with long-term strategic goals, considering both performance and budgetary constraints.
