Jeff Karstens To Return To The Pirates

The Pirates have re-signed pitcher Jeff Karstens to a one-year deal believed to be valued in the region of $2.5M, pending a physical. While Karstens will enter the mix for the final two spots in the rotation,  he is most likely to be guaranteed a spot if no other starting pitcher is acquired prior to the beginning of the season.

Free Agent Alternatives To Francisco Liriano

With Francisco Liriano’s now looking in doubt, the Pirates may look externally for a replacement if the deal cannot be restructured. The Bucs do have a lot of options internally; however Neal Huntington has stated that he could make a move if an upgrade can be found. 

Liriano Picks Up Injury, Deal With Pirates In Doubt

Francisco Liriano’s deal with the Pirates appears to be in jeopardy. The left-handed starting pitcher suffered an injury to his right arm shortly after agreeing to a two-year, $12.75M contract with the Pirates at the end of December, causing the physical to be delayed. 

I liked the idea of Liriano joining the club; a closer look at his performance certainly offered hope. At the very least he’s a 2 win pitcher, but then he does have the upside for more than that.