The Major League Baseball free agency period has officially begun and while Pirates fans keep their eyes on what Russell Martin will do, other questions remain.
Will Francisco Liriano accept the qualifying offer and come back for another season?
If Liriano accepts the offer, the Pirates will have two starting spots solidified. Charlie Morton is likely to miss the beginning of the 2015 season and the status of Volquez is unknown. That leaves Vance Worley and Jeff Locke as possible pieces for the rotation. Jameson Taillon should begin a throwing program soon which could lead him to a call-up during the season if there are no setbacks.
That’s a lot of question marks for the rotation which leads you to believe that they will go after another reclamation project — or two if the money is there to spend.
Justin Masterson’s name has popped up a few times as a possible candidate. Other options could be Brandon McCarthy, Brandon Morrow and Brett Anderson— all of which have popped up on the Pirates radar in the past.
One more name to throw into the hat — this guy just won’t go away — is A.J. Burnett.
Yes, we all know he wants to stay close to home, but he declined Philadelphia’s club option making him a free agent. Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reports that Burnett wants to pitch for a contender.
A.J. Burnett’s agent, Darek Braunecker: “We do expect that he will pitch in ’15. For a contender.”
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) November 4, 2014
Another question is what will the Pirates do with their current logjam at first base?
Pedro Alvarez, Ike Davis and Gaby Sanchez all had below-average years leaving a void at the position. All three will also be getting paid through arbitration this winter.
If the Pirates were to move some or all of this, they would free up more cash for other voids and a cheaper, yet effective, replacement at first — possibly an Adam LaRoche or Michael Cuddyer.
These are all unknowns at the moment and looks to stay that way until we know more about what Martin will be doing. If he stays in Pittsburgh, the team will have less money to spend and will have to fill the remaining holes wisely.
If Martin leaves — the Pirates will receive a first round draft pick from the team that does sign him — they will have additional money to boost the rotation, figure out first base and sign Martin’s replacement — most-likely a defensive catcher like David Ross or a trade for Miguel Montero if the dust between the Pirates and Diamondbacks has settled.
The possibility of adding a bullpen arm is an option, as well.
Many questions for one of the biggest offseason free agency periods in club history.
(Photo by Jared Wickerham/Getty Images)
