Erik Karlsson Expects to Be Ready for Penguins’ Season Opener
p/c: Scott Galvin - USA Today Sports
Despite an undisclosed injury that’s kept him out during training camp and the preseason, Erik Karlsson said on Golf Digest’s “The Loop” podcast that he expects to play on Opening Night for the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Karlsson returned to practice on Thursday, for the first time since the injury. He practiced in a non-contact jersey. Head coach Mike Sullivan felt confident that the 34-year-old defenseman would be ready to open the regular season.
In August of last year, the Pens pulled off a blockbuster three-team trade, with Pittsburgh acquiring Karlsson from the San Jose Sharks.
Karlsson’s first season with the Penguins drew mixed reviews, as he registered 56 points (11 G; 45 A) in 82 games, but was deemed a major reason why Pittsburgh’s power play was historically dreadful.
The Pens open up the regular season at home next Wednesday versus the New York Rangers at 7:30 on TNT.
Ben Cherington to Sink or Swim with Derek Shelton
p/c: Charles LeClaire - USA Today Sports
It was at this time five years ago that Neal Huntington was still the general manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates. After Clint Hurdle was fired, on the final day of the 2019 regular season, Pirates’ fans were waiting for the other shoe to drop, in regards to Huntington’s job security.
On October 28th, 2019, the Pirates dismissed Huntington as vice president and GM. In the meantime, Kevan Graves served as the interim general manager.
Ben Cherington would be named the new Pirates GM on November 18th. A week later, Derek Shelton was announced as the next manager.
After posting the worst record during the Covid shortened 2020 season - followed by back-to-back 100-loss campaigns - Pittsburgh began to show signs of improvement last year. They finished 76-86 - a 14-win increase from 2022.
2024 seemed to present some level of optimism for the Pirates. The bullpen was considered by most to be a strength for them.
At 54-52, the Bucs found themselves buyers at the trade deadline, for the first time since 2018. The additions included Isiah Kiner-Falefa from the Toronto Blue Jays and Bryan De La Cruz from the Miami Marlins.
Unfortunately, the Pirates experienced an August collapse by going 8-19. The bulk of those losses involved relievers not being able to get it done late in games. Compound the issue with the lackluster nature of the offense.
Pittsburgh once again went 76-86 - marking the first time since 2005-2006 that they had the same record in back-to-back years.
While the record was the same for the Bucs, there is some needed context. Unlike 2023, the Pirates had Paul Skenes and Jared Jones, as well as better versions of Bailey Falter and Luis Ortiz, within their starting rotation. Not to mention that they also had a full season of Oneil Cruz, who was nearly a four-win player on offense, with a 3.8 oWAR.
The Pirates’ offense this year struck out a franchise most 1,506 times, while posting a National League worst .672 OPS. On Monday, it came out that the organization was firing hitting coach Andy Haines. A couple other dismissals were made, with bullpen coach Justin Meccage, along with strength & conditioning coach Adam Vish.
Cherington held a press conference on Wednesday, to indicate that Shelton will be brought back to manage the Pirates in 2025. According to Cherington, he approached owner Bob Nutting on wanting Shelton to return, with Nutting giving his approval.
Bringing back a manager, who has just a .415 winning percentage, simply isn’t sending the right message, and that mediocrity is being accepted by this organization.
From what appeared promising in 2023 has been a step backwards. Although the rotation was a positive, the bullpen vastly underperformed, and the offense was terribly, inconsistent.
Whether Cherington felt it was the right thing to do by retaining Shelton, and going into next season together, he’s literally putting his job security on the line, with anything less than the postseason in 2025 becoming a walk out the door for both.
Pirates Reportedly Moving On from Andy Haines
ESPN.com’s Jesse Rogers mentioned on Twitter/X that the Pittsburgh Pirates are moving on from hitting coach Andy Haines.
The Pirates hired Haines to be their hitting coach prior to the 2022 season.
In 2022, Pittsburgh’s offense had major struggles, as they finished last in the National League in team batting average at .222, while being next to last in runs batted in with 555.
Last season, there seemed to be some gradual improvement on the offensive side, more specifically in the on base department, with 556 walks drawn, which was tied for ninth most in MLB.
2024 was a significant step back for the Pirates’ offense - finishing last in the NL, with a team OPS of .672. Strikeouts were a problem again. The 1,506 Ks were not only fourth most in MLB, but the mark also set a new franchise record.
Steelers Sign CJ Henderson to Practice Squad
The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a notable addition to their practice squad, as they have signed cornerback CJ Henderson, this according to NFL Network’s Tom Pellissero.
Henderson was a former first round selection (ninth overall) of the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2020 draft.
In September of 2021, Jacksonville traded Henderson to the Carolina Panthers, in exchange for tight end Dan Arnold.
Spending parts of three seasons with the Panthers, Henderson recorded a pair of interceptions, and struggled in coverage, with a 110.6 passer rating against, whenever he was targeted.
Henderson signed with the Houston Texans in March of this year, but was released by Houston at the end of preseason.
The addition of Henderson gives Pittsburgh another depth option at CB, with Cory Trice being placed on IR, after suffering a hamstring injury, in the Steelers’ Week 3 win over the Los Angeles Chargers.
Steelers Sign Calvin Anderson
p/c: Greg M. Cooper
NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reports that the Pittsburgh Steelers are signing offensive tackle Calvin Anderson. According to Garafolo, the Steelers worked out Anderson on Monday.
The signing of Anderson comes less than 24 hours, after it was reported that rookie OT Troy Fautanu would miss the remainder of the season, due to a dislocated kneecap.
Coming out of the University of Texas in 2019, Anderson signed on with the New England Patriots as an undrafted free agent. He was waived in May of that year, and picked up by the New York Jets.
Anderson got his most extensive playing time with the Denver Broncos from 2020-22, where he dressed for a total of 41 games; 12 of which were starts.
In 2023, Anderson rejoined New England. He started two games on the Pats’ offensive line.
Anderson is considered a swing tackle, so it’s likely the Steelers will give him an opportunity to backup Broderick Jones and Dan Moore Jr.
Troy Fautanu Out for the Season
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport posted on Twitter/X late Sunday night that Pittsburgh Steelers rookie offensive tackle Troy Fautanu suffered what is essentially a dislocated kneecap. He will have surgery to repair the ligament damage. While the injury will keep Fautanu out for the regular season, Rapoport thinks he could return, if Pittsburgh makes the playoffs.
The Steelers made Fautanu their first round choice (20th overall) in this year’s NFL Draft. The former Washington Husky was the 2023 Morris Trophy winner, which is awarded to the top offensive lineman in the Pac 12.
Fautanu’s rookie season got off to an inauspicious start -beginning in the preseason - where he sustained a knee injury - in the exhibition opener versus the Houston Texans. He would miss the rest of the preseason.
After missing the season opener in Atlanta, Fautanu made his NFL debut in Week 2 against the Denver Broncos - rotating at right tackle - along with Broderick Jones.
It was during Friday’s practice that Fautanu had a knee injury, which initially placed him on injured reserve on Saturday, which means he would miss a minimum of four games.
Broderick Jones will now look solidify his spot as the Steelers starting RT.
What Would a Russell Wilson Trade to Dolphins Look Like?
p/c: Charles LeClaire - USA Today Sports
The Pittsburgh Steelers completely revamped their quarterback room in 2024, this after going into last year, with Kenny Pickett, Mitch Trubisky, and Mason Rudolph.
A new cast was presented by GM Omar Khan, as he signed veterans Russell Wilson and Kyle Allen, while also trading for Justin Fields.
Following last season, head coach Mike Tomlin said a veteran QB would be brought in to compete, alongside Pickett.
Early in the offseason, reports had surfaced that Pickett wasn’t thrilled about Wilson’s arrival to Pittsburgh. As it turned out, Pickett was dealt to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Fields was made a trade candidate by the Chicago Bears, with much speculation that they were set to draft Caleb Williams.
A conditional sixth round pick for 2025 is all it took for the Steelers to acquire Fields.
On the eve of training camp, Wilson sustained a calf injury, after pushing a sled during a conditioning test.
The injury to Wilson allowed Fields to get most of the reps with the first team offense.
In total, Wilson played just six series in the preseason. However, he said he “felt great” and “strong”.
A few days prior to the Steelers’ season opener, Wilson re-injured his calf - putting his status for Week 1 in jeopardy.
Tomlin made Wilson a game-time decision in Atlanta, but instead, Fields got the start, Allen was moved up to QB2, and Wilson would be an emergency option.
Perhaps a revenge game in Denver would be in store for Wilson. However, he was a limited participant in practice all week, and again, was listed as an emergency backup.
Further down South - South Florida that is - The Miami Dolphins are currently dealing with a major injury loss to their star quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa.
During the Dolphins’ 31-10 loss on Thursday Night Football to the Buffalo Bills, Tagovailoa suffered a significant concussion.
Despite a history of numerous concussions, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported on Sunday that the lefty throwing Pro Bowl QB has no plans to retire, and that he’s already been seeing concussion specialists. Rapoport added that there’s currently no timetable for Tagovailoa’s return.
Given Miami’s obvious need for a proven veteran quarterback replacement, would they legitimately consider trading for Russell Wilson?
Although it’s not a complete certainty, perhaps Tomlin continues to ride with Justin Fields, even if Wilson is fully healthy. Through the first two games, Fields has posted a 94.6 passer rating.
So hypothetically speaking, what would a trade involving the Steelers and Dolphins for Wilson look like?
Pittsburgh signed the 35-year-old Wilson to a one-year deal, for the veteran minimum at $1.2 million, which of course be very enticing to Miami, or any team in search of QB help.
Realistically, it probably wouldn’t cost the Dolphins much, in terms of draft capital. Perhaps something along the lines of a third or fourth round pick for next year.
If Omar Khan were to move Wilson, a lot would depend on how comfortable the Steelers would be having Kyle Allen as Justin Fields’ backup. Management may feel that Wilson’s track record makes him a nice, veteran insurance policy to Fields.
From Miami’s perspective, it’s more than likely they would go out and sign a quarterback in free agency, as opposed to relinquishing any draft picks. Ryan Tannehill is currently on the open market, so maybe a Dolphins’ reunion with Tannehill on an inexpensive deal is the way they go.
Steelers Sign Corliss Waitman
In the wake of Cameron Johnston’s injury in Pittsburgh’s Week 1 victory over the Atlanta Falcons, the Steelers have signed his replacement, Corliss Waitman, this according to Waitman’s agent, Alexa Stabler.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported Monday morning that Johnston’s knee injury would be season-ending. The 32-year-old Aussie inked a three-year deal worth $9 million with the Steelers this past offseason, to significantly upgrade the punting game.
Waitman is a familiar name, in regards to the Steelers, as he was a member of Pittsburgh’s practice squad in 2020 and 2021.
During the 2021 season, Waitman appeared in two games with the Steelers, while Pressley Harvin III was on bereavement leave.
The Denver Broncos gave Waitman his first extensive opportunity in 2022, as he was their punter for all 17 regular season games. He averaged 46.6 yards per punt, and posted an inside the 20 percentage of 31.3%.
Waitman spent time on the New England Patriots’ practice squad in 2023. He was then waived by the Chicago Bears towards the end of this preseason.
Justin Fields to Start Steelers’ Season Opener
Justin Fields will be getting his opportunity to be quarterback of the Pittsburgh Steelers much sooner than later, as he will start the season opener against the Atlanta Falcons.
At the beginning of training camp, Russell Wilson dealt with a calf injury, which obviously limited his participation. Despite playing in the last two preseason games, Wilson re-injured the calf during Thursday’s practice.
On Friday, Fields worked out with the first team wide receivers, which seemed to provide an indication that he was going to get the reps to start.
The combination of a disgruntled Kenny Pickett, as well as the Chicago Bears planning to take Caleb Williams #1 overall in this year’s draft, resulted in Justin Fields being traded to Pittsburgh.
Fields started 13 games for the Bears last season, throwing for 2,562 yards, while posting a 16-9 TD/INT ratio, and a passer rating of 86.3. Deemed the fastest QB in the league, Fields also ran for 657 yards, along with four touchdowns.
Five Most Intriguing Penguins to Watch This Preseason
The Pittsburgh Penguins are just around the corner from the start of training camp. On September 21st, the Pens will kick off the preseason with the Buffalo Sabres.
As Mike Sullivan enters his 10th season as Penguins head coach, he will look to see what players could make an impression this preseason. Here are five Penguins that I find the most intriguing.
Jesse Puljujärvi: After undergoing double hip surgery last summer, forward Jesse Puljujärvi had signed a professional tryout contract with the Penguins. Initially not making the team, he was signed to another PTO, in which he would play for Wilkes-Barre/Scranton.
In 13 games with the WBS Pens, Pulijujärvi had four goals. It was on February 6th that he was called up to Pittsburgh, where he registered four points (3 G; 1 A) in 22 games played.
President of hockey operations & general manager Kyle Dubas signed Pulijujärvi to a two-year contract for $1.6 million.
Now that Pulijujärvi is fully healthy, and was able to have himself a normal offseason, he could be a potential option on the fourth line.
Nikolai Knzynov: Much like Jesse Pulijujärvi last year, Nikolai Knzynov finds himself in a PTO situation, as the Penguins signed him on August 22nd.
Prior to signing with Pittsburgh, the Russian born defenseman had spent parts of four seasons with the San Jose Sharks, playing the last two under David Quinn, who is now the Penguins’ new assistant coach.
Knzynov’s best season in San Jose was the Covid abbreviated 2020-21 season, where he compiled 84 hits, along 54 blocked shots in 56 games. In 2022, he tore his Achilles tendon.
For a Penguins team looking for defensemen depth, perhaps Knzynov could bring his physical style to the mix in the preseason.
Owen Pickering: In the 2022 NHL Draft, Pittsburgh selected defenseman Owen Pickering 21st overall.
After being drafted, Pickering got to appear in eight games with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton.
The St. Adolphe, Manitoba, Canada native spent 2023-24 playing for the Swift Current Broncos, registering 46 points (7 G; 39 A) in 59 games.
As the top defensive prospect in the Penguins’ organization, Pickering could try to turn heads, given that the defensemen corps needs to get younger. While it’s likely Pickering would be sent to WBS, perhaps he’s able to have a strong, camp & preseason, in an effort to crack the Penguins’ Opening Night roster.
Rutger McGroarty: It’s not very often you see a trade involving exclusively of prospects, but that’s what went down on August 22nd, as the Penguins dealt forward Brayden Yager to the Winnipeg Jets in exchange for forward Rutger McGroarty.
Shortly following the deal, McGroarty agreed to sign a three-year entry-level contract with Pittsburgh.
Last season, while playing at the University of Michigan, the former first rounder compiled a total of 52 points (16 G; 36 A).
McGroarty played a key role in the 2024 World Juniors, as he recorded five goals, while helping lead Team USA to a gold medal in Sweden.
As talented as Yager certainly is, most scouts are of the belief that McGroarty has a better chance of being a true center, as well as being more NHL ready. Going into the exhibition slate, there’s no question that McGroarty will have the most eyes on him, to possibly make the big club.
Vasily Ponomarev: The Carolina Hurricanes chose forward Vasily Ponomarev in Round 2 (53rd overall) of the 2020 draft.
On the eve of the 2024 trade deadline, the Canes parted ways with the native of Moscow, as he was traded to the Penguins in the Jake Guentzel deal.
Ponomarev had eight goals in 39 games with the Chicago Wolves, prior to the trade. He then played in four games for the WBS Pens.
In 2022-23, Ponomarev had his best professional season, registering 24 goals in 64 games played with the Wolves.
Pittsburgh’s bottom six, particularly their fourth line, will have some interesting candidates to fill those spots, and Ponomarev is certainly one of them.
Pirates Could Face Interesting Offseason Decision with David Bednar
Pittsburgh guy - check - 2-time All-Star closer - check - A pierogi & pot roast filled hot dog in correlation to the Renegade nickname - check.
All things are good in the world with David Bednar, right? Well….
The 29-year-old Pittsburgh Pirates closer entered 2024 missing most of spring training, because of a lat injury.
For Bednar, the lack of a true spring showed its effects, as he blew three save chances, within his first five appearances.
Following a blown save loss against the Detroit Tigers on April 9th, first baseman Rowdy Tellez came to Bednar’s defense in the postgame - expressing how David is a Pittsburgh guy and that “We don’t do that here.”
Although Tellez’s intentions were good, it was met with criticism, as most felt Bednar needed to be the one responsible, for his poor pitching to start the season.
From May to July, Bednar seemed to be turning things around, posting a 2.41 ERA, in 27 games.
However, the month of August has been brutal, to say the least for Bednar, with an ERA of 8.00. In that stretch, he’s had back-to-back blown saves against the San Diego Padres on August 7th & 8th, and was on the receiving end of a walkoff loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers on August 11th.
In total, Bednar has made 47 appearances, registering a 5.68 ERA, along with a 4.56 FIP. So how does one exactly figure out Bednar’s struggles?
Velocity hasn’t been the issue for Bednar. In fact, he’s got a better average fastball velo (97.2) than last season (96.6). Same with the splitter (92.1) compared to 91.6 in 2023. The problem though is the lack of swing & miss with his fastball and curveball.
Fastball
2023: 30.3% whiff rate
2024: 23.5% whiff rate
Curveball
2023: 40.5% whiff rate
2024: 26.3% whiff rate
The biggest thing has been opposing batters squaring up Bednar’s fastball much more soundly this year, with teams slugging .529 off his four-seamer, as compared to only a .315 figure last season.
Unless Bednar can finish 2024 with a good September, then the Pirates would be faced with an interesting decision this coming offseason.
Bednar will have two more years of control, after this season. He is currently making $4.1 million.
Many have speculated about a possible Bednar trade this winter. Personally, I would be surprised it happens. First off, Bednar has been a multiple time All-Star, and is a year removed from his best campaign, in which he posted a 222 ERA+, as well as an NL leading 39 saves. Secondly, it wouldn’t make sense to trade Bednar at his lowest value, especially when there isn’t a rush to move him, given the amount of control Pittsburgh has with him.
Bednar’s projected arbitration figure in the offseason could be in a range of $4.5 to $5 million, so if he’s able to bounce back in 2025, the salary still becomes a bargain.
Even if the Pirates give their full endorsement to Bednar being a key part of the bullpen next season, it shouldn’t guarantee the closer’s job. I feel like it’s something Bednar would need to earn back.
Pitt Offense Preparing for Fresh Start Under Kade Bell
p/c: Matt Hawley
Following the departure of Kedon Slovis to BYU, the Pittsburgh Panthers brought in graduate transfer Phil Jurkovec prior to last season.
It was a reunion of sorts, for both Jurkovec and offensive coordinator Frank Cignetti Jr, who were together at Boston College.
As it turned out, Jurkovec’s time with the Panthers was simply a miserable failure. It then followed with Christian Veilleux, and eventually Nate Yarnell.
The end result was Pitt finishing 2023 with a 3-9 record - Their worst of the Heinz Field/Acrisure Stadium Era.
There’s no doubt that Cignetti’s endorsement of Jurkovec ultimately cost him his job as offensive coordinator.
On December 10th, the Panthers hired Western Carolina’s Kade Bell, to be the next OC.
Western Carolina had tremendous, success offensively last year under Bell, averaging a Southern Conference best 37.6 points per game.
Bell will be taking over a Pitt offense that averaged only 20.2 points, along with 317.9 total yards a year ago; both last in the ACC.
Head coach Pat Narduzzi certainly went outside the box, with the Bell hiring, as he brought in a young, innovative coordinator, who has ran high-powered offenses.
As Pitt’s season opener with Kent State quickly approaches, Narduzzi has yet to announce his starting quarterback, which will either be Nate Yarnell, or Alabama transfer, Eli Holstein.
Perhaps a nice, silver lining for the Panthers’ offense in 2024 will be the amount of returning starters, including tailback Rodney Hammond and tight end Gavin Bartholomew, each of whom were considered transfer portal candidates.
The wide receiving corps should be a strength, with Konata Mumpfield, Kenny Johnson, coming off a very good freshman year, Daejon Reynolds. Just for good measure, Bell helped lure a couple of familiar faces to Pittsburgh, with CJ Lee and Poppi Williams; both of which played at Western Carolina, and already have an understanding of Bell’s offensive philosophy.
While most predict the Pitt Panthers to finish last in the ACC this year, it’s an opportunity for Bell and the offense to surprise people, given the low expectations, for the team as a whole.
Nate Herbig Out for Extended Time with Shoulder Injury
p/c: Ed Thompson
According to Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Nate Herbig has a significant shoulder injury, which will keep him out for an extended period.
Herbig joined the Steelers last offseason as a free agent - signing a two-year contract for $8 million.
In 2023, Herbig dressed for all 17 regular season games, but started only two at guard.
One of the main Steelers’ competitions this year is at the center position, with Herbig, and Zach Frazier, who Pittsburgh selected in the second round of the 2024 draft.
At the beginning of training camp, Herbig ran with the first team offense. Not surprising, given his veteran status.
During the Steelers’ preseason opener last Friday versus the Houston Texans, Herbig struggled under center, as he committed a couple of fumble exchanges with Justin Fields. Meanwhile, Frazier looked impressive, in his playing time there.
The report from Dulac would obviously indicate that Herbig will out for the start of the season, and that Frazier will be the starting center for the Steelers in Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons.
Pirates Place Marco Gonzales on IL; Done for the Season
p/c: Kim Klement Neitzel - USA Today Sports
Marco Gonzales’ 2024 season came to an end on Monday, as the Pittsburgh Pirates put the veteran southpaw on the 60-day injured list, with a forearm strain.
Last offseason, on December 3rd, the Atlanta Braves acquired Gonzales from the Seattle Mariners, in a five-player trade - highlighted by Jarred Kelenic.
On December 5th, the Braves flipped Gonzales to the Pirates, for a player to be named later. In addition, Atlanta took on $9.25 million of his $12 million dollar salary for 2024.
Gonzales pitched well in three April starts, before a forearm strain landed him on the IL.
The 32-year-old left-hander returned to the Pirates’ rotation on July 12th. In his last four starts, he posted a 6.67 ERA. Overall, his ERA, in seven starts with Pittsburgh was 4.54.
Gonzales has a $15 million dollar club option for 2025, which the Pirates will no doubt decline this offseason.
Five Most Interesting Steelers Players to Watch In Preseason
Pittsburgh Steelers football is nearly upon us - Three days to be exact.
The Steelers open up the preseason on Friday, as they will host the Houston Texans at Acrisure Stadium, for a 7:00 ET kickoff.
As Pittsburgh gears up for their preseason slate, here are five players that are going to be the most interesting to watch.
Beanie Bishop Jr: Last year, Beanie Bishop Jr. transferred to the University of West Virginia as a redshirt senior.
Bishop was terrific, for the Mountaineers in 2023, recording four interceptions, while leading the nation in pass breakups.
Despite being named a First team All-American, Bishop went surprisingly undrafted. Shortly after the draft concluded, the Steelers signed the talented cornerback to a UDFA deal.
Bishop to this point has been a training camp darling. He will look to open more eyes in the preseason, with a possible spot on the 53-man roster, as a slot CB.
Justin Fields: In perhaps the most star-powered quarterback duo the Steelers will enter a season with, since Ben Roethlisberger and Michael Vick in 2015, Justin Fields looks to battle it out, with former Pro Bowler Russell Wilson.
It was no secret that the Chicago Bears made Fields expendable, after they selected QB Caleb Williams #1 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft.
The Steelers trading for Fields came to fruition, this after Kenny Pickett was reportedly unhappy about Russell Wilson coming to Pittsburgh, for a perceived QB competition.
Wilson entered camp dealing with a calf injury, which has allowed Fields to run with the first team offense. For all intents & purposes, Wilson is set be the Steelers starting quarterback, but maybe a strong, preseason showing from Fields, who already has looked impressive in camp so far, could get Mike Tomlin to at least consider who goes into Week 1 as the main guy.
Payton Wilson: When the Steelers dealt Kenny Pickett to the Philadelphia Eagles, they received Philly’s third round pick (98th overall) in the 2024 draft. With that pick, Pittsburgh selected NC State linebacker Payton Wilson.
Following his senior season, Wilson captured both the Bednarik Award (best defensive player) and Butkus Award (best linebacker).
Injury concerns caused Wilson to fall into the third round. There seems to be a consensus that the Steelers’ selection of Wilson was the biggest mid-round steal in the draft.
Wilson has a chance to climb up the ILB depth chart in preseason, given Cole Holcomb’s injury status, as well as Mark Robinson not living up to his potential. A productive showing from Wilson would most likely have him third on the depth chart behind Patrick Queen and Elandon Roberts.
Troy Fautanu: For the second year in a row, the Steelers went the offensive tackle route, with their first round pick, as they chose Troy Fautanu 20th overall out of the University of Washington.
Fautanu, who grew up as a big, Troy Polamalu fan, was the 2023 Morris Trophy recipient, which is awarded to best offensive lineman in the Pac 12.
Pass blocking is a huge strength of Fautanu’s. However, his run blocking skills leave some to be desired.
Dan Moore Jr. is projected to be the Steelers’ starting LT to open the 2024 season. Perhaps there’s an opportunity for Fautanu to push Broderick Jones at the RT position.
Zach Frazier: The center position needed to be a priority for the Steelers to address in the draft, this after Mason Cole’s disastrous season last year.
In Round 2 (51st overall), Pittsburgh took WVU center Zach Frazier.
During his junior year, Frazier was a First team All-Big 12.
The combination of strength and athleticism makes Frazier an intriguing, Steelers rookie. At 6’3, 313 pounds, he explodes off the ball, and is a solid, run blocker.
Frazier enters preseason play in a competition, for the starting center spot, alongside Nate Herbig. As of right now, Herbig has been practicing with the first team offense, which would indicate that it’ll be his job to lose.
Kyle Nicolas Deserves High Leverage Chances In Pirates’ Bullpen
p/c: Ezra Shaw
Kyle Nicolas arrived to the Pittsburgh Pirates’ organization from the Miami Marlins, as one of the main pieces in the Jacob Stallings trade.
Entering 2023, Nicolas was ranked the 19th best Pirates prospect, according to MLB Pipeline.
Nicolas began last season pitching in the Altoona Curve rotation, where he pitched okay, with a 4.36 ERA in 12 starts.
On June 16th, Nicolas was promoted to AAA Indianapolis. He would experience major struggles as a starter, posting an ERA of 10.59.
The decision was made to move Nicolas to the Indianapolis’ bullpen full-time. It resulted in an incredible, turnaround for him, as he registered a 2.14 ERA, along with an 0.95 WHIP, in 14 relief outings. The more unexpected development for Nicolas was a significant, increase in fastball velocity - going 94-95 as a starter - to sitting 97-98 in a relief role.
Based on the great bullpen results, as well as being Rule 5 eligible in the offseason, the Pirates selected Nicolas as a September call up.
Although Nicolas failed to make the Opening Day roster, it wasn’t too long until he would get recalled to Pittsburgh on April 28th.
The first 18 games for Nicolas had its inconsistencies, as he had a 5.40 ERA. Since then, he’s really flipped a switch. Over his last 15 appearances, the 25-year-old righty has posted an ERA of 0.52; third lowest among NL relievers in that span.
Nicolas’ pitches have all been clicking for him right now.
Fastball: 97.6 avg velocity, .192 opp avg, .260 opp slugging, 20.4% whiff rate
Slider: 91.0 avg velocity, .213 opp avg, .255 opp slugging, 37.3% whiff rate
Curveball: 85.3 avg velocity, .235 opp avg, .294 opp slugging, 50.0% whiff rate
For as dominant as Colin Holderman was the first 3+ months, he’s shown regression, especially as of late. During the Pirates’ weekend series versus the Arizona Diamondbacks, Holderman allowed a go-ahead, RBI double to Geraldo Perdomo, for a 9-8 Arizona win on Friday. The Dbacks would get to Holderman again on Sunday, as Joc Pederson delievered a go-ahead, 3-run homer in the seventh inning, to give them a 6-5 victory and the series.
Holderman’s last 12 games have been bad, with an 8.11 ERA, and even though he was terrific earlier in the year, it’s what have you done for me lately? And lately, Holderman just isn’t getting it done.
When it comes to bullpen management, Derek Shelton needs to show more urgency, especially with his team still in the midst of a playoff race. Statistically, Nicolas is the Pirates’ best reliever since late June. In order for Nicolas to take the next step in his pitching growth, Shelton should look to place him in more high leverage situations. Quite frankly, Nicolas has earned that chance.
Endy Rodriguez Could Play In Minor League Games Soon
p/c: Katie Stratman - USA Today Sports
On his Sunday radio show on 93.7 The Fan, Pirates general manager Ben Cherington provided an update on Endy Rodriguez - and it’s a promising one.
As the 24-year-old Rodriguez continues to recover from a UCL injury that he sustained during winter ball in November, Cherington says he’s been able to do things, which could allow to begin playing in minor league games soon.
According to Cherington, Rodriguez has been taking batting practice from the left side, as well as working out at first base. He’s yet to hit from the right side, which Cherington indicated would be a box for him to check.
The plan from Cherington, in regards to Rodriguez taking part in minor league action, would be to have him mostly in a DH role, with the potential of also playing first base. Although Rodriguez is currently catching bullpen sessions, Cherington says catching will be the last part of the process, because of the volume it takes by throwing that constantly.
Rodriguez was one of many rookies who joined the Pirates in 2023. He posted a .220/.284/.328 slash, in 204 plate appearances. Behind the dish, however, Rodriguez was solid, with a +3 Defensive Runs Saved, along with a 30% caught stealing; 11% above league average. He was responsible for catching Johan Oviedo’s first career complete game shutout on August 28th in Kansas City.
Joey Bart Continues to Be a Saving Grace for Pirates’ Catching Depth
p/c: AP
To describe the Pittsburgh Pirates’ catching situation in 2024, it would be enough to put your brain into a mental pretzel.
It started with Endy Rodriguez, who was expected to be out for all of ‘24, with a UCL injury.
Wanting to push Henry Davis at catcher, the Pirates opted to sign veteran backstop Yasmani Grandal, to a one-year deal for $2.5 million. The 35-year-old Grandal would miss most of spring training, as he dealt with plantar fasciitis. Davis had a strong, performance in the spring anyway, and was named the Pirates’ Opening Day catcher.
It’s been a struggle for the former first overall pick in the bigs, as he slashed only .153/.267/.235, in 102 plate appearances. Currently, Davis is at AAA Indianapolis - trying to work his way back.
The Pirates would make an interesting trade on April 2nd, with Joey Bart being acquired from the San Francisco Giants, for pitcher Austin Strickland. The move was no doubt in response to the Grandal injury.
Several years ago, Bart had been the Giants’ best catching prospect in the organization, as well as a consensus Top 50 prospect in the minors.
Unfortunately for Bart, things weren’t clicking for him, as he posted a slash line of .219/.288/.335, in parts of four seasons with San Francisco.
With the Pirates desperately needing offensive production at catcher, Bart has been a revelation, posting an impressive, .825 OPS. His 131 wRC+ would be fourth highest among MLB catchers, if he had qualified for enough plate appearances.
In 122 at-bats with the Bucs, Bart has hit seven homers. Of those seven, two of them are grand slams, which he did on May 23rd and July 9th. Bart would become the first Pirates catcher to hit multiple grand slams in the same season since Tony Pena in 1984.
Behind the plate, Bart has been decent enough, as he’s put up a 23% caught stealing, which is right around league average at 22%. In addition, he’s only allowed two passed balls.
Bart is a saving grace for the Pirates this year, when it comes to the catching position. The irony is that the offense he’s shown is what Davis was suppose to provide. With the exception of being the personal catcher for Paul Skenes, Grandal is no longer a regular starter. Obviously, a 47 wRC+ is clear enough evidence. And although Jason Delay is probably the most well-rounded, defensive backstop of the four, offensively, he doesn’t produce enough, to be a in a starting role with Pittsburgh. At the end of the day, Bart has been the best of the bunch this year.
For the Pirates, another perk they’ll have with Bart is plenty of team control. He will be first time arbitration eligible this offseason, and won’t be a free agent until after the 2027 season.
Pirates Come Out Winners After Kiner-Falefa Acquisition
On Tuesday, the Pittsburgh Pirates made a flurry of moves just before the 6:00pm MLB Trade Deadline. Although the headline trade was the one bringing outfielder Bryan De La Cruz from Miami to Pittsburgh, one of their other moves could have a significant impact.
Super utility man Isiah Kiner-Falefa was acquired from the Toronto Blue Jays in exchange for outfielder Charles McAdoo, the Pirates’ 29th-ranked prospect. McAdoo was slashing .269/.347/.490 in Altoona, the Pirates’ Double-A affiliate.
Kiner-Falefa is under club control until the end of the 2025 season, as he signed a two-year, $15 million deal with the Blue Jays this past offseason.
A native of Honolulu, Hawaii, Kiner-Falefa is best-known for his defensive versatility. He plays with frequency at all outfield positions, and he is capable of manning every infield position - including catcher - aside from first base.
But that’s not to suggest he can’t come through on the offensive side of the ball as well.
The 29-year-old Kiner-Falefa, a distant cousin of Pirates legend Ralph Kiner, was putting up pretty impressive numbers for Toronto prior to the deadline deal. He is hitting .292/.338/.420 with seven home runs, 33 RBI, three stolen bases, and an OPS of .758. Although 2024 is his best offensive season to date, he’s still sitting at a respectable .264/.317/.354 slash line for his career.
Make no mistake: This is a really good trade for the Pirates and signifies their “win-now” approach. Not only does it fill a need for them position-wise – second baseman Nick Gonzales is currently week-to-week with an apparent groin injury, and Kiner-Falefa has played 40 games at second base – but it provides them a solid contact hitter with a very respectable career BABIP (batting average on balls in play) of .303. Kiner-Falefa’s 2024 BABIP is currently sitting at .316.
Kiner-Falefa’s positional versatility is comparable to that of former Pirates super utility man Sean Rodriguez, but his offensive profile exceeds Rodriguez’s. He pretty consistently slotted in the second spot in the Blue Jays’ lineup, as his high average and contact rate lend to getting on base for the bigger guns to drive him in.
It will be interesting to see where he fits into the Pirates’ lineup, but he very well could be a solid candidate for the leadoff spot. Even if Kiner-Falefa doesn’t possess anything special in terms of speed, this nonetheless gives manager Derek Shelton the option to bump DH Andrew McCutchen down in the lineup, as McCutchen is hitting only .224 but still boasts 13 HRs and 29 RBI. Slotting McCutchen in the sixth spot – where he still has the chance to drive in some runs – would likely be the most ideal lineup when factoring both Kiner-Falefa and De La Cruz into it:
1 - 2B Isiah Kiner-Falefa
2 - LF Bryan Reynolds
3 - SS Oneil Cruz
4 - RF Bryan De La Cruz
5 - 1B Rowdy Tellez
6 - DH Andrew McCutchen
7 - C Joey Bart
8 - 3B Ke’Bryan Hayes
9 - CF Michael A. Taylor
All in all, the Pirates are getting a very solid – and much-needed – super utility man in Kiner-Falefa. Even when Gonzalez returns, Kiner-Falefa’s positional flexibility allows him to remain in the lineup on a near-nightly basis, which is something that will only help the Pirates’ struggling offense in their 2024 playoff push.
Assessing the Bryan De La Cruz Deal
Following much speculation of obtaining outfield help at the trade deadline, the Pittsburgh Pirates got their guy in Bryan De La Cruz from the Miami Marlins. In return, the Fish acquired pitcher Jun-Seok Shim and infielder Garret Forrester.
De La Cruz entered 2024 in his fourth season with the Marlins. In 454 plate appearances, he’s slashing .245/.289/.417, along with 18 home runs. To this point, De La Cruz is just under league average offensively, with a 96 wRC+.
The defense for De La Cruz has its pros & cons, as his range is below average, but possesses an outstanding, throwing arm.
For De La Cruz, he’ll be arbitration eligible for the first time this offseason, and won’t become a free agent after the 2027 season.
Shim was signed by the Pirates out of South Korea in January of 2023. He put pen to paper, for a signing bonus of $750,000.
The fastball for Shim can go mid-to-upper-90’s. The secondary offerings include a plus curveball, a good slider, and a decent enough changeup.
MLB Pipeline had Shim as the 17th ranked prospect in the Pirates’ organization. Unfortunately, for the 20-year-old right-hander, he hasn’t pitched this year, due to a shoulder injury.
Forrester was a third round draft selection of the Pirates in 2023 out of Oregon State.
This season in Low A, with the Bradenton Marauders, Forrester posted a .413 on base, in 138 plate appearances.
On MLB Pipeline’s Pirates prospect rankings, Forrester was right behind Shim at 18.
Assessment: De La Cruz will provide the Pirates with a power bat that help balance the lineup. While the overall production may not be strong, he can at the very least be a better outfield option than who the Pirates have on the active roster currently. Pittsburgh will have a few years of control with De La Cruz, which will be his prime years, as he’s 27.
The Marlins were able to land a pair of prospects within the Top 20, in exchange for De La Cruz.
Shim is a pitcher, who has plenty of upside, but has already had a difficult time staying healthy, in the early part of his pro career.
Meanwhile, Forrester provides Miami with a prospect that does a terrific, job getting on base. However, the lack of power from Forrester makes him more of a utility infielder in the future.
In terms of what the Pirates gave up for De La Cruz, I feel it’s a fair return.