Could the Pirates Actually Trade Aroldis Chapman?
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During the second half of the 2023 season, the Pittsburgh Pirates were beginning to see positive results in a collective fashion from their bullpen.
GM Ben Cherington decided to capitalize on the team’s strength by adding Aroldis Chapman to the mix last offseason. The move was quite the surprise around baseball, as they not only brought in the flamethrowing lefty, but signed him to a one-year deal for $10.5 million - a franchise record for a reliever.
The 2024 season for Chapman has certainly been interesting, but for the most part, not the best results.
In 40 appearances with the Bucs, Chapman’s ERA is at 4.15, while his FIP is a tad higher at 4.29. If the season had ended right now, his 1.62 WHIP would be the worst of his career. A major reason for base path activity has been the free passes, and Chapman is doing it a lot, issuing 32 walks in 34.2 innings (8.3 BB/9). Luckily, for the 36-year-old, he’s still racking up the strikeouts with 56 (14.5 K/9).
At this point in ‘24, Chapman has been a replacement level reliever, with a -0.2 WAR and a -0.4 Win Probability Added.
Despite the inconsistencies this year, would the Pirates still make an attempt to move Chapman at the trade deadline?
Perhaps other contenders would have some level of interest in the veteran southpaw, if for nothing else, his name recognition and track record.
Last year, the Kansas City Royals acquired Cole Ragans from the Texas Rangers, in a trade for Chapman. Although on a rental deal, the Royals sold very high on Chapman, and got back a pitcher, who’s become a Top 5 left-handed starter in MLB this season. Based on Chapman’s current value, the Pirates would realistically have to settle for a B level prospect.
At 48-48, Pittsburgh finds themselves just 1.5 games back of a wild card spot in the National League. The pitching is why the Pirates have been able to stay afloat in this wide open race. While the starting rotation is giving them a chance, the bullpen as a whole has been coming together lately. David Bednar and Carmen Mlodzinski have returned to form, Colin Holderman has been outstanding, for the most part, even with some recent hiccups, Kyle Nicolas is beginning to figure things out, and Ryan Borucki, who was a key part of the bullpen a year ago, is expected to return soon off the injured list.
So with that said, should the Pirates at consider trading Chapman? Sure, because you see what offers can be had, but again, going on his trade value currently, if you’re not going to get back a solid, return, then it’s probably better just to keep Chapman. At the very least, it wouldn’t be the worst thing, especially if someone in the Pirates’ bullpen goes thru a second half regression or gets hurt.
Andrew McCutchen Still Holding His Own In 2024
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p/c: Ron Chenoy - USA Today Sports
Without a doubt, Andrew McCutchen was one of baseball’s most exciting players during the decade of the 2010’s. Five All-Star selections, four Silver Sluggers, a Gold Glove, and a National League MVP award would be more than enough evidence.
Then came the huge firestorm in January of 2018, when the Pittsburgh Pirates decided to trade their face of the franchise to the San Francisco Giants, in a deal that netted them Bryan Reynolds and Kyle Crick.
In the years that followed, McCutchen signed a well-paid, three-year deal, with the Philadelphia Phillies, and also played for the Milwaukee Brewers.
Entering the 2022-23 offseason, McCutchen found himself back on the free agent market. Speculation began to grow regarding a McCutchen return to Pittsburgh. It was discovered that Andrew’s wife, Maria, had encouraged him to contact Pirates owner Bob Nutting about a possible reunion.
On January 20th, 2023, the Pirates and McCutchen agreed to terms on a one-year deal worth $5 million.
McCutchen performed well offensively last year, posting a .775 OPS. However, a partial Achilles tear in September ended his ‘23 campaign on a sour note.
Sitting on 299 career homers, McCutchen had re-signed with the Bucs, on another one-year, $5 million dollar deal.
It didn’t take long for McCutchen to reach the 300 home run milestone, as he accomplished it on April 14th against the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park off reliever Ricardo Pinto.
As the Pirates find themselves in the mix of a very wide open NL Wild Card picture, their offense continues to be very inconsistent. That being said, McCutchen has been one of the few bright spots.
While McCutchen’s .242/.338/.404 slash line doesn’t appear to be strong, the underlying figures have been strong, such as his xwOBA and xSLG. The bat speed remains steady, and the Barrel % on baseballs is excellent, to this point.
The one constant for McCutchen throughout his MLB career has been his ability to get on base. As a leadoff batter this season, he’s using that skill set to his benefit. Since being inserted at the top of the Pirates’ lineup, McCutchen is reaching base at a .355 clip, and has a solid, wRC+ of 130. Oddly enough, he’s driving the ball more, with a .461 slugging percentage. Also, nine of his ten homers have come in the leadoff spot.
McCutchen is playing in his age 37 season, and so far, has been surprisingly good, especially when you consider that he’s coming off an Achilles injury only nine months prior. Obviously, the All-Star level production is no more for McCutchen, but he seems to have found a home in the leadoff role, with the Pirates this year.
Steelers Should Consider a “Slash” Role for Justin Fields
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p/c: Joe Sargent
The early portion of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offseason was quite hectic, to say the least.
It started on March 15th, when GM Omar Khan brought former Pro Bowl quarterback Russell Wilson, for the veteran minimum of $1.2 million.
The idea was for the Steelers to sign a veteran QB, to compete alongside Kenny Pickett.
Reports began to surface that Pickett was unhappy about the Wilson signing. This prompted Pittsburgh to trade their 2022 first round selection to the Philadelphia Eagles, for a 2024 third round pick (Payton Wilson), along with a pair of seventh round picks in 2025.
With the Chicago Bears owning the first overall pick in this year’s draft, Caleb Williams had been considered the consensus selection, and sure enough, it’s who they chose. The pick of Williams would result in the Bears making Justin Fields expendable.
A day after Pickett was moved, the Steelers pulled off another shocking transaction, as they would acquire Fields. In return, Chicago received a conditional 2025 sixth round pick.
In probably the least surprising move of the NFL offseason, Pittsburgh decided to decline Fields’ fifth-year option for 2025 worth $25 million on May 2nd.
Russell Wilson will no doubt open the 2024 season as the Steelers starting signal caller, with Fields looking to take the job away from Wilson. Barring injury, it appears Wilson would play well enough to remain the starter. As for Fields, it might be best to get him involved in the offense somehow. Perhaps Mike Tomlin and Arthur Smith can resurrect “The Slash” role for Fields.
There’s plenty of options the Steelers could go with Fields, in terms of offensive playcalling. At 6’3, 227 pounds, the 25-year-old Fields is arguably the fastest QB in the league, as his NFL Combine time coming out of Ohio State was at 4.46, so his speed could be used in a variety of ways, such as the incorporation of a wildcat scheme at QB, catching balls out of the backfield like a tailback, being involved in jet-sweeps, or simply lining up at receiver.
Another thought of utilizing Fields is to have him return kickoffs - something that EA Sports recently teased, as part of their Madden ‘25 video game trailer.
In my opinion, it doesn’t seem necessary to put Fields on kickoff return duties, especially when Calvin Austin III is a more clear cut option.
Rather than have Fields and his young, athletic talents just stand on the sideline, with a clipboard in hand, it would be in the Steelers’ best interest to strongly consider using him in the offense, as a jack-of-all-trades weapon, in order to give them an added dynamic.
Does a Patrik Laine Trade Make Sense for Penguins?
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p/c: Jaylynn Nash
Despite, a much more competitive Pittsburgh Penguins team down the stretch this season, they failed to make the playoffs again, for a second year in a row - marking the first time the Pens have missed the playoffs consecutively since the mid-2000’s.
For president of hockey operations/general manager Kyle Dubas, it’s been his initiative to making the Penguins younger, and more specifically, better throughout the farm system. That started with Dubas obtaining a few quality prospects, along with Michael Bunting, from the Carolina Hurricanes, as part of the Jake Guentzel trade.
It was reported recently by TSN’s Elliotte Friedman that the Columbus Blue Jackets could look to part ways with Patrik Laine this offseason.
Laine, who was a second overall pick of the Winnipeg Jets in 2016, signed a four-year deal worth $34.8 million with the Jackets, in July of 2022.
This season, Laine was limited to just 18 games, as he suffered a broken clavicle.
While Laine has a 44-goal season on his resume, with 20 of those coming on the Power Play in 2017-18, it’s been a difficult time for him to stay on the ice, in the more recent years. What complicates matters even more is Laine making an AAV of $8.7 million over the next two seasons.
Laine’s current contract also includes a 10-team no trade clause, which certainly would prompt Columbus into retaining a large majority of his remaining money, just to get more teams involved.
Based on the Laine trade rumor speculation, would the Penguins be a possible suitor?
Laine will enter 2024-25 in his age 26 season, so he’s still a young forward. If healthy, he would not only be inserted on Sidney Crosby’s line, but could also give Pittsburgh, who had a historically dreadful Power Play this season, a tremendous, contributor on the man advantage.
I don’t doubt that Dubas would have some level of interest in Laine, but at what price?
Columbus would likely want a young, talented player, who’s ready to play right away, to headline a deal. The new Utah team has Logan Cooley. The 20-year-old and Pittsburgh born Cooley is coming off a terrific, rookie campaign, for the now defunct Arizona Coyotes. With Utah wanting to make a splash, perhaps they could offer Cooley for Laine.
If indeed that’s what the Jackets want to acquire in a Laine trade, then the Penguins don’t seem to have that type of player like Cooley. And I’m not certain Dubas wants to part with any top-tier prospects; being that one of his main goals is to replenish the system. At the very least, the Pens should consider kicking the tires on Laine, however, what offer would make both sides comfortable could be tricky.
Five Bullpen Trade Targets for Pirates to Consider
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The MLB trade deadline will be fast approaching - before we know it. Tuesday, July 30th, to be exact.
At 31-34, the Pittsburgh Pirates are currently 7.0 games back, in the NL Central division. However, they somehow find themselves just a half game back of a very much wide open Wild Card spot.
The Pirates’ bullpen, which suppose to be a big strength for them going into this year, has gotten mixed results, with a combination of injuries, and underperformance.
Assuming that Pittsburgh can stay afloat in the NL Wild Card picture come the deadline, here are five realistic reliever candidates, who they could look to add.
Adam Ottavino: 2024 is Adam Ottavino’s third season as a member of the New York Mets. ERA-wise, it’s been a struggle for the veteran righty, posting a 5.79 mark. The underlying metrics show a different story, as he’s got a 3.62 FIP and a 3.28 xFIP. Ottavino also has a 12.3 K/9 (32 K in 23.1 IP), which is eighth best among NL relievers.
The sinker and sweeper are two pitches that Ottavino is relying on the most this season (37.5% sinker; 34.0% sweeper).
Ottavino is making a reasonable amount at $4.5 million, and will be a free agent after the season. Perhaps the Pirates could acquire Ottavino as a buy-low candidate.
Hunter Strickland: When the Pirates traded Adam LaRoche to the Boston Red Sox in 2009, they acquired Hunter Strickland as an up and coming prospect. Could the Bucs look to bring him back a second time?
Strickland, who inked a minor league deal with the Los Angeles Angels in February, has made 28 appearances for the Halos, putting up an ERA of 3.33, along with a 3.82 FIP. Strickland has done well minimizing action on the basepaths, with an 0.96 WHIP - thanks in part to a solid, BB/9 of 2.0 (6 BB in 27 IP).
This season, Strickland is relying heavily on his slider - throwing the offering more than half the time at 58.3%. Opponents are hitting only .174 off Strickland’s slider, while 17 of his 21 strikeouts have come with the pitch.
Jake Diekman: Despite being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, Jake Diekman is in his 13th MLB season.
The sidearmed lefty signed with the New York Mets in February on a one-year deal for $4 million, which includes a 2025 team option for the same amount.
Diekman is certainly well-traveled, with the Mets being his ninth team. To this point, he’s posted a 3.80 ERA. Control has been an issue for Diekman, with 15 walks in 21.1 innings (6.3 BB/9), but he does have 28 strikeouts (11.8 K/9).
The sweeper is Diekman’s bread & butter, and is really tough on opposing batters, registering an .053 batting average against, as well as a whiff rate of 40.4%.
Given the long-term injury to Ryan Borucki, the Pirates would certainly be in the market, for a lefty reliever with a track record.
Michael Kopech: After pitching as starter in 2022 and 2023, Michael Kopech now finds himself in the closer role, for the Chicago White Sox this season. In 27 appearances, he’s posted a 4.94 ERA and a 4.15 xERA. Walks are a bugaboo for Kopech, allowing 17 in 27.1 innings (5.6 BB/9). However, his 12.8 K/9 is currently fourth best among AL relievers.
Kopech’s four-seam fastball is definitely one of the most powerful among relief arms in all of MLB at 98.8 mph, which is fifth fastest. With that fastball, opposing hitters have managed to hit just .230 off it. Also, 82% of his strikeouts have come with the four-seamer (32 of 39).
This season, Kopech is making $3 million. He does have a year left of club control, as he will arbitration eligible for a final time this offseason.
TJ McFarland: After signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers in January, TJ McFarland was dealt to the Oakland Athletics at the end of spring training, in exchange for cash considerations. McFarland is with the A’s for a second time, as he also pitched for them during the 2020 Covid abbreviated year.
Thru 33 games he’s appeared in with Oakland this season, McFarland has an ERA of 3.81, along with a 3.57 FIP.
When it comes to getting groundballs, the 35-year-old southpaw can do it with the best of them. For his career, McFarland has registered a 61.5% groundball rate. This season is no exception, as he’s induced grounders at a 65.4% clip.
McFarland is set to be a free agent after seasons end. While Mason Miller is obviously the sexy name in the Athletics’ bullpen, as well as this year’s trade market in general, the Pirates may not have the prospect resources to get Miller, especially when there’s going to be tons of interest from the Baltimore Orioles, who have an elite, farm system. That being said, a groundball-heavy lefty reliever at a figure of only $850,000, wouldn’t be a bad alternative for Pittsburgh.
Luis Ortiz Looks to Have Found Home In Pirates’ Bullpen
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p/c: Christopher Horner - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
After signing with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2018, as a 19-year-old out of San Pedro de Macoris in the Dominican Republic, Luis Ortiz quietly emerged as a steady, pitching prospect. To the point that in 2022, Baseball America mentioned Ortiz as a sleeper prospect, within the Pirates’ system.
It was September of 2022 that Ortiz would arrive to Pittsburgh. He made four starts with the Bucs, posting an ERA of 4.50, along with a 3.67 FIP.
Ortiz would rejoin the Pirates on May 9th of last year, this after having a 2.23 ERA, while pitching for the Indianapolis Indians.
The extensive stint with Pittsburgh in 2023 was more of a struggle, as he had a 4.78 ERA and a high 1.70 WHIP.
Going into big league camp this year, the Pirates had a competition, for two open spots in the starting rotation. Ortiz would be among the candidates. Despite a good, spring performance, he lost out to Jared Jones and Bailey Falter. However, Ortiz received a nice, consolation prize, as he was named to the team’s Opening Day roster as a long reliever.
For a Pirates’ bullpen that’s been up & down - by and large this season - Ortiz has been a real pleasant surprise. In 19 games to this point, he’s registered an ERA of 2.61, which is currently second best among Bucco relievers. Only Colin Holderman has a lower ERA at 0.83. Ortiz’s FIP is 3.49, while the WHIP is a healthy, 1.13.
This season has seen Ortiz expand his arsenal more.
Here are the figures on what opponents are doing to each of his offerings:
Sinker: .192 average, .269 slugging
Four-seamer: .174 average, .217 slugging
Slider: .186 average, .302 slugging
Cutter: .235 average, .294 slugging
Changeup: .000 average, .000 slugging
What’s interesting is that Ortiz hasn’t been much of a strikeout pitcher in 2024 (7.1 K/9), but yet opposing batters are having a difficult time making any sort of relevant contact on any of his pitches. The key to that has been solid, extension, with his release point.
Ortiz’s walk numbers are something to keep an eye on, as free passes are being issued at 4.0 per 9. If he’s able to increase his strikeout rate, then perhaps that’ll help prevent possible regression.
Nonetheless, Ortiz is providing a real shot in the arm, for a Pirates’ bullpen looking for as much stability as they can.
What Is the Future of Liover Peguero with the Pirates?
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In terms of Pirates prospects, Liover Peguero became one of the first to be acquired by Ben Cherington, in the very early stages of his Pirates GM tenure.
On January 27th, 2020, the Pirates obtained Peguero from the Arizona Diamondbacks, as part of the Starling Marte trade.
Heading into the 2022 season, Peguero was rated the fifth best prospect in the Pirates’ farm system. In addition, he was also a consensus Top 100 prospect, with Baseball Prospectus ranking him the highest at 38.
Peguero would make his unexpected big league debut at PNC Park on June 18th, 2022, when Tucupita Marcano was sent to the Covid list. Because Peguero was in Altoona, the move became convenient. Facing the San Francisco Giants, Peguero collected his first MLB hit off veteran lefty Alex Wood. Shortly after, Peguero was optioned back to Altoona.
The beginning of 2023 for Peguero was with the Curve. In 318 plate appearances, he batted .260/.333/.453, before getting promoted to AAA Indianapolis on July 4th. While with the Indians, he had a slash of .259/.333/.556 in 30 plate appearances.
It was on July 17th that Peguero would make his return to the Pirates. With Oneil Cruz out with a season-ending, fibula injury, manager Derek Shelton was looking for alternative options at shortstop. Although Peguero hit seven home runs in 213 plate appearances, his offensive production was subpar, posting a slash line of .237/.280/.374. Defensively, Peguero wasn’t any better, as he registered a -3 Defensive Runs Saved at shortstop. He also struggled at second base, with a -4 DRS.
Peguero arrived to 2024 spring training in competition for the second base job, alongside Nick Gonzales and Jared Triolo. Despite a good Grapefruit League showing, it wasn’t enough to make the Pirates’ Opening Day roster, and he was optioned back to Indianapolis.
Currently, Peguero has been putting up decent numbers with the Indians, slashing .275/.337/.392 in 196 plate appearances.
At this point, how do the Pirates view Peguero moving forward?
Although Peguero is no longer of prospect status, he’s only 23, so he still has age on his side. There really isn’t an opportunity right now for Peguero to be a starter in Pittsburgh, given how well Gonzales has performed at second base since his recall, and Cruz cemented at shortstop, with seemingly no indication of him moving to another position.
Peguero isn’t the defensive infielder that Alika Williams is, however, he presents more offensive upside than Williams, which might lead to a Peguero recall, and being placed in a reserve infield role.
Going into this season, the Pirates’ bullpen was thought be a big strength for them. Instead, it’s been a combination of regression, as well as key injuries. If Cherington feels the team can stick around to be playoff contenders, then perhaps an idea would be to trade Peguero, in order to obtain needed bullpen help.
How the rest of this year plays out for Peguero will certainly be something to keep tabs on.
Bailey Falter Becoming Unexpected Fixture In Pirates’ Rotation
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p/c: Justin Berl - Getty Images
After moving Rich Hill to the San Diego Padres at last year’s trade deadline, the Pittsburgh Pirates decided to add back to their starting rotation. The deal involved swapping infielder Rodolfo Castro to the Philadelphia Phillies, in exchange for left-hander Bailey Falter.
Following the trade, Falter made 10 appearances with Pittsburgh; seven of which were starts. In 40.1 innings pitched, he had a 5.58 ERA, along with a 5.78 FIP.
The 6’4 lefty entered spring training looking to claim one of two spots in the Pirates’ rotation. The catch being that he was out of minor league options.
Falter struggled immensely in the spring, as he gave up 14 earned runs in 16 innings, while allowing six home runs - the most of any pitcher - either Grapefruit or Cactus League.
Pirates GM Ben Cherington and manager Derek Shelton were faced with harsh criticism from both fans and media, when they chose to include Falter on the team’s Opening Day roster, despite his woeful, spring showing.
In his season debut versus the Miami Marlins on Easter Sunday, Falter surrendered six earned runs in four innings, which prompted more backlash on social media from the Pirates’ fanbase.
Since then, it’s as if a new lightbulb was inserted for Falter, as he’s been a bright spot within the rotation, with 70% of his starts to this point being quality outings.
Falter’s best start for the Pirates came on May 18th against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. He tossed 7.2 scoreless frames, while matching rookie sensation Shōta Imanaga pitch-by-pitch.
On Friday, Falter would take on the Atlanta Braves at PNC Park, and more than held his own versus one of baseball’s toughest lineups. He threw seven shutout innings, before giving up a three-run homer to Ronald Acuña Jr. in the eighth.
Falter has made 10 starts with the Pirates this season. To this point, he’s proving an enormous amount of doubters wrong. Falter is posting a 3.55 ERA. His WHIP of 0.98 is currently sixth lowest among MLB southpaw starters. Additionally, Falter has held opposing batters to a .625 OPS against.
Although Falter’s four-seam fastball averages only 91.5 mph, he’s been keeping hitters off balance with it, as they’re hitting .171, while slugging only .261. Not only is he commanding the four-seamer with solid, command, but more importantly, he’s throwing it with outstanding, extension.
The first two months of the 2024 season has resulted in Falter becoming a key part of the Pirates’ pitching staff, as well as one of MLB’s most pleasant surprises.
Pirates Need to Pull the Plug on Rowdy Tellez Experiment
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p/c: Icon Sportswire
Last week, I did an article regarding Ben Cherington and his lackluster free agent signings from this past offseason. One player who has been the biggest microcosm of that is Rowdy Tellez.
Signed to a one-year deal for $3.2 million, on December 15th, Tellez was brought in to be the Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman entering 2024 - at least paired in a possible platoon with Connor Joe.
On Easter Sunday against the Miami Marlins, the Pirates received a key hit from Tellez, which was a go-ahead, 3-run homer in the seventh. Pittsburgh would win the game 9-7 in 10 innings.
The early going of 2024 has been a struggle for David Bednar. So much so that on April 9th, he was booed by the PNC Park faithful, following a third blown save and a loss. After the game, Tellez offered his support to Bednar by telling Pirates fans that David is a Pittsburgh guy, and that “we don’t do that here.”
The comments were mostly met with criticism among media and fans, for someone having to answer to Bednar’s ineffectiveness, even if the intentions were good.
Whether those comments were deemed appropriate or not, it doesn’t matter, as Tellez is performing very poor offensively. Among MLB first basemen, with a minimum of 125 plate appearances, Tellez has the lowest OPS (.483) and wRC+ (41). To put his 41 wRC+ into perspective, Josh VanMeter, who most deemed as one of the worst Pirates players in recent memory, had a 57 mark during the 2022 season.
For his big league career, Tellez owns a slugging percentage of .476. That figure is a mind-boggling, .233 with Pittsburgh - again the worst among first basemen. In the more traditional sense, Tellez has gone 40 consecutive games without a home run, has just three doubles, and has only driven in eight runs.
In addition to the lousy, offense, the defense at first base with Tellez has been a downgrade for the Pirates, this after witnessing Carlos Santana play the position at a Gold Glove level last year.
Whatever the reason is, manager Derek Shelton seems reluctant to play Connor Joe at first base on a regular basis. Either that, or management wants to keep justifying what’s become a bad signing in Tellez.
Internally, the Pirates have a few options they could potentially turn to down in AAA. Jake Lamb is tearing the cover off the baseball, for the Indianapolis Indians, as he’s currently tied for fifth in hitting in the International League, with a .342 average. Two other options getting time at first base are Matt Gorski and Malcom Nuñez. Gorski has been red hot at the plate recently, posting an OPS of 1.099 over his last 10 games. As for Nuñez, he’s been okay for the Indians, with a .722 OPS.
While I’m not suggesting that any of those names I listed are long-term answers at first base with the Pirates, the bottom line is that it wouldn’t take much for any of them to be an upgrade over Tellez at this point.
There’s no doubt Ben Cherington was banking on Tellez to perform at the level he did two years ago with the Milwaukee Brewers, when he blasted a career-high 35 homers. For Cherington, the $3.2 million dollar gamble has been a disaster, and it’s time for the Pirates to wash their hands of that mistake, and at least attempt to reasonably address first base, while the team is still hovering around .500.
Eric Lauer Opts Out of Pirates Contract
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According to John Dreker, LHP Eric Lauer has been granted his release by the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Lauer inked a minor league contract with the Pirates on March 22nd. Because he signed late in spring training, it appeared unlikely that he would given a spot in the starting rotation.
The 28-year-old southpaw was assigned to AAA Indianapolis to begin 2024. In his first two appearances, he went multiple innings in a piggyback role to Paul Skenes. Since then, Lauer has pitched in six games as a starter with the Indians.
In March/April, the numbers for Lauer were solid, as he posted an ERA of 2.37, while holding opponents to a .238 batting average against. However, Lauer’s May so far has been very poor, giving up 13 earned runs in 10.1 innings (11.32 ERA), and allowing over two baserunners per inning (2.32 WHIP).
Lauer would have his shortest outing of the season for Indianapolis on Sunday, lasting only two innings, while surrendering six earned runs against the Louisville Bats.
Spending parts of six seasons in the bigs, with the San Diego Padres and Milwaukee Brewers, Lauer has a career 4.30 ERA. His best year came in 2021, where he registered an ERA of 3.19, in 24 games with Milwaukee.
2024 Steelers Breakout Candidate: Nick Herbig
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For Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Omar Khan and assistant GM Andy Weidl, the 2023 draft has received rave reviews around the league, with most contributing in some form or fashion last season. One of those players was outside linebacker Nick Herbig.
The Steelers selected Herbig in Round 4 in ‘23 out of the University of Wisconsin. Coming out of the draft, there were concerns regarding Herbig’s arm length. However, scouts also pointed out his ability to explode off the ball as a pass rusher, and being able to stop the run effectively. Some considered the Herbig pick to be a potential steal for Pittsburgh.
It didn’t hurt Herbig that his brother, Nate, who’s an offensive lineman with the Steelers, was able to prepare him for the pro football life. The brotherly advice seemed to work for the younger Herbig, as he displayed arguably the most impressive showing of any Steelers defensive player, in both training camp and preseason.
Herbig began the 2023 season fourth on Pittsburgh’s OLB depth chart behind TJ Watt, Alex Highsmith, and Markus Golden.
As expected, Herbig received limited defensive snaps as a rookie at 17%. Despite this, he made the most of his opportunity by recording three sacks, two forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery. Herbig was mainly used on special teams coverage, where he saw action 78% of the time.
Before reportedly agreeing to a two-year, $10 million dollar deal with the Los Angeles Chargers, Bud Dupree had been in talks with the Steelers about a possible reunion. Given that Herbig is a young, rising player, and Dupree is starting to enter the downside of his career, it was best for Khan not to pursue Dupree, especially at that asking price.
Herbig definitely showed flashes of real potential during his rookie campaign last season. If given the chance to be the Steelers’ third OLB option this year, which he should, then there’s a good bet he performs even better, once he gets a more steady increase in defensive snaps. Of course, sitting under the TJ Watt learning tree is a bonus. With Watt and Highsmith both in their prime, a breakout 2024 from Herbig would give the Steelers a dominant three-headed monster at OLB.
Ben Cherington Swinging & Missing on This Season’s Free Agent Signings
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Following back-to-back seasons of 100 losses, the Pittsburgh Pirates showed a 14-win improvement in 2023 by finishing 76-86.
It was an opportunity for general manager Ben Cherington to add some vital pieces this past offseason, in an effort to legitimately compete in 2024.
The Pirates’ main needs heading into the season were first base, catcher, outfield, and starting rotation.
Despite Carlos Santana expressing an interest to return to Pittsburgh, Cherington opted to go in a different direction by signing Rowdy Tellez on a one-year deal for $3.2 million in December.
Tellez has been a disaster offensively. Thru his first 39 games with the Pirates, he has a batting line of .194/.273/.255, and has just one home run. Not shockingly, Tellez is a replacement level player this season, with a -0.6 fWAR.
A season-ending injury to Endy Rodriguez prompted the Pirates to go out and bring in a veteran catcher, to compete alongside Henry Davis. The backstop chosen was Yasmani Grandal, who signed for one-year at $2.5 million in February.
After missing a large portion of spring training due to plantar fasciitis, Grandal rehabbed his way back with the AAA Indianapolis Indians. The 35-year-old would be activated by the Pirates on May 4th, which in turn led to Davis’ demotion to Indianapolis.
Grandal’s defense behind the plate has already cost Pittsburgh games, specifically their most recent series with the Chicago Cubs. On Friday, a perfect relay from Bryan Reynolds & Oneil Cruz should’ve thrown out Nico Hoerner at the plate, but Grandal inexplicably dropped the ball. Another misplay was a passed ball in the 10th inning of the Pirates’ 5-4 loss on Sunday.
Center field was addressed, in the form of Michael A. Taylor, which happened in the middle of spring training on March 16th. It was a reported one-year deal worth $4 million.
Taylor joined the Pirates, with a Gold Glove reputation, as he was a 2021 AL recipient. While the defense has been steady (5 Defensive Runs Saved; 3 Outs Above Average), the offensive figures are abysmal, with a .232/.279/.295 slash line, along with a very high 35.8% strikeout rate. Even with the good defense, Taylor is at a 0.4 fWAR thru 33 games.
In addition to trading for Marco Gonzales, the Pirates inked Martín Pérez to a one-year deal for $8 million on January 5th.
The 33-year-old Pérez has really held his own in the rotation so far, posting a 3.60 ERA and a FIP of 3.42 in eight starts.
Expected to be the Pirates’ biggest strength going into this year was the bullpen. On January 31st, they would make perhaps the most surprising move of the entire MLB offseason by signing Aroldis Chapman at $10.5 million, which set a franchise high for a reliever.
Unfortunately, The Cuban Missile has been a misfire, in his first season in Pittsburgh to this point. He currently has an ERA of 5.27, while his FIP isn’t much better at 5.06. Although Chapman is still racking up strikeouts (24 in 13.2), he’s allowed more walks than innings pitched (17 in 13.2).
Outside of the Martín Pérez signing, the other free agent additions from Cherington have left plenty to be desired.
First base has been a black hole with Tellez, who has the worst OPS among MLB first basemen at .508. To make matters worse, Connor Joe and his .866 OPS isn’t being used there on a regular basis.
Taylor is producing very little offensively as well, with a .574 OPS - second lowest among center fielders.
Given the struggles and eventual demotion of Davis, the Pirates are now going with an aging veteran in Grandal, which really doesn’t serve much of a purpose.
As for Chapman, his value is probably the lowest of his 15-year career, and it doesn’t help matters that he’s owed $10.5 million, if the Cherington wanted to obtain the best possible trade return for him.
While there were a couple moves that seemed to be logical on paper, it’s been mostly Cherington trying to place square pegs in round holes, particularly with the Tellez and Taylor signings. Waste of free agent dollars like this is one of the main reasons why the Pirates aren’t being able to reach that next level into becoming a true contender.
Valtteri Puustinen Re-Signs with Penguins
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p/c: Jeanine Leech
The Pittsburgh Penguins have announced that Valtteri Puustinen has re-signed with the team. It’s a two-year deal worth an average annual value of $775,000 at the NHL level.
Puustinen joined the Penguins as a seventh round draft selection in 2019.
The Finnish born forward had his best professional season during the 2022-23 season with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, as he registered 59 points (24 G; 35 A) in 72 games played.
This season, Puustinen would receive his most extensive playing time with Pittsburgh - playing in 52 games. On December 27th, he recorded his first NHL goal, in a 7-0 win over the New York Islanders. In total, Puustinen had 20 points (5 G; 15 A), along with a 56.9% Corsi.
General manager Kyle Dubas wants to make it his initiative of having the Penguins become a younger club. Puustinen should have a very good shot of making the team next season, and perhaps the hope is that he could take another step forward, much like Drew O’Connor did in 2023-24.
Penguins Talk with Jordan DeFigio
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For the second year in a row, the Pittsburgh Penguins have missed the playoffs. While the team tried to make a good, late season push, it wasn’t enough.
General manager Kyle Dubas will be entering perhaps the most interesting offseason of the Crosby-Malkin-Letang Era. To break down all things Penguins’ offseason, I recently spoke with my former Burgh Sports United buddy, Jordan DeFigio, who does the Fly Penguins Fly podcast.
Shetler: Sidney Crosby produced an excellent season at age 36, with 42 goals. Where would you rank The Captain’s 2023-24 campaign in regards to his best?
DeFigio: It is really tough to compare his seasons against each other head-to-head (which I think is a testament to how talented he is and how illustrious his career has been). I think we’d all agree his 2009-10 campaign in which he tallied 51 goals and 58 assists for 109 points is up at the top, along with the 2006-07 season (36 goals, 84 assists, 120 points) and 2016-17 season (44 goals, 45 assists, 89 points). I mean, how can you properly rank campaigns when the guy has six 100+ point seasons? That being said, what he was able to accomplish this season, at an age most hockey analysts mark as synonymous with AARP benefits and wheelchair ramps, is just next-level. 42 goals, 52 assists, all while working with an ass trash powerplay and an ever-revolving door of linemates; he shouldn’t have been nearly as good as he was this year, but age – while it has maybe slowed him down JUST a hair – doesn’t seem to be negatively impacting his game in the least. In fact, his experience has matured him so much so that he sees the game in a way that more than makes up for any pep his step has lost. He is perhaps the most brilliant hockey mind the league has ever seen (hot take, maybe. But not by much) and this season was just another bit of bronze in Sidney statue that will inevitably stand outside PPG someday.
Shetler: How would you assess Erik Karlsson’s first season in Pittsburgh?
DeFigio: If I’m being quite honest, I’d say EK65’s first season in the black and gold is exactly what we all should have been expecting. Not to harp on age, but he’s 33 and in my mind he was only getting his feet wet. In general, his style of defense leans high-risk (which is what’s helped him thrive as one of the most gifted offensive-defensemen in the game). 11 goals on the season is far from his best (25 goals in 2022-2023), but also hardly his worst (only 3 goals in 2018-2019). But his greatest strength has always been in getting the puck exactly where it needs to be for other people to score – and he did that 45 times this season. And that’s just standard analytics. He boasted pretty strong advanced analytics too, with a 99% EV Offence WAR at even strength, and a 57% xGoal share/62% actual goal share (per JFreshHockey). I can hardly heap blame on him for the total breakdown in finishing, OR how god-awful the powerplay strategy and execution were. Which leads into…
Shetler: The Penguins’ powerplay this season was historically the worst in their franchise history. What would be your suggestions to improve it for next season?
DeFigio: Let Karlsson quarterback the top powerplay unit. After firing Todd Reirden into orbit, of course. They simply cannot run it back with him next year, because their inability to score on the powerplay quite literally cost them games. It’s inexcusable. Too much passing, too many turnovers, too much thinking about what SHOULD be happening instead of working in the moment with what IS happening. Get Michael Bunting on that top unit too, immediately. Someone needs to live in front of the net for all 2:00 and I think he’s that guy. He has no qualms about crashing the net and being aggressive. We saw hints of this towards the end of the season, with the PP1 being comprised of Bunting, Crosby, Rust, Karlsson, and Malkin. But I think Malkin should slide to PP2 and DOC should slide up to the first unit. Just a little bit more speed and grit. Dubas is also going to need to bring in some reliable depth players this offseason, because you can’t ride the top unit the whole time. But jeez, at least take Reirden’s blank whiteboard away from him and give it to someone who can use a marker.
Shetler: What are the chances the Penguins bring back Jake Guentzel in the offseason?
DeFigio: The chances? Slim. My expectations they bring him back? Through the ROOF. There’s just something about the whole situation that makes me feel in my gut Jake will be back for the first game of the 2024-25 season. It’s probably just the hopeful Yinzmantic in me that’s talking right now, but I don’t know. I just think Dubas is going to work some magic and re-sign Guentzel.
Shetler: What were your impressions of Michael Bunting after the Pens acquired him in the Guentzel trade?
DeFigio: Despite being in a very intense period of mourning, I was sold on Michael Bunting from the jump. He’s the type of player this team has been missing since Patric Hornqvist left and, while it sucks they acquired that type of player in a move that cost them one of their best players, they needed him. He is the Robin to Malkin’s Batman (something I’m not quite sure Geno has ever truly had), and I’m excited to watch him play a full season in the Burgh.
Shetler: Which young prospects would you like to see get a legitimate opportunity to make the Penguins’ roster next season?
DeFigio: Give me some Ville Koivunen, Brayden Yager, and Joel Blomqvist. Heck, I’d love to see Tristan Broz too. Their prospect pool is currently ranked 27th in the league, so might as well start giving some of these guys who are doing well at the AHL/WHL level a fair shot so Dubas can see what he’s actually working with and start planning for the day when the Big Three era is officially over. But those are four guys I’d love to see get a chance to round out the bottom 6 and maybe provide a spark in the depth.
Shetler: Do you believe Brayden Yager, Pittsburgh’s 2023 first round pick, has the potential to be a perennial All-Star type forward for them in the future?
DeFigio: I really do. In 57 games played in 2023-24, he tallied 35 goals, 60 assists, and was a +19. He may not ever be the face of the franchise, but if given a fair shake and proper coaching, I think he’ll be an NHL All-Star.
Shetler: Will Kyle Dubas trade Tristan Jarry this offseason?
DeFigio: If Jarry is on the roster come October, I will be SHOCKED. The only reason they might keep him is if no one else is willing to take on his contract. Which, honestly, I could see happening. But at the very least I think Dubas is going to *try* to move Jarry. The fact that Ned was the hand they rode until the bitter end was very telling – because Ned had very evident flaws. But for a plethora of reasons, the team played far better with Ned in net than they did with Jarry in net. I just don’t think anyone in the organization believes he’s the guy moving forward – including Jarry himself. Time will tell, but…I think he’ll be gone some time this summer.
Assessing the Steelers’ Selection of Troy Fautanu
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Detroit was the site of the 2024 NFL Draft. Night one of the draft featured a large amount of offensive players selected, and the Pittsburgh Steelers were no exception, as they selected versatile Washington OL Troy Fautanu.
Following the pick, general manager Omar Khan and head coach Mike Tomlin talked about Fautanu, with Tomlin saying that he would start out as a tackle.
The selection of Fautanu makes it back-to-back years, in which the Steelers have drafted an offensive tackle in Round 1. Broderick Jones was taken out of Georgia a year ago.
Fautanu didn’t become a full-time starter at Washington until he was a redshirt junior in 2022. That year, he was named to the All-Pac 12 second-team.
Last year, Fautanu elevated his game even more, as he was awarded with the Morris Trophy, which is given to the top offensive lineman in the Pac 12.
Aside from individual performance by Fautanu, the 2023 Huskies’ offensive line was recognized as the best in the nation, and it led to Michael Penix Jr. becoming a Heisman finalist.
Upon being selected at 20, Fautanu expressed plenty of emotion. While fulfilling a childhood dream would be an obvious reason, another could be that Fautanu grew up a Steelers fan, and his football idol growing up was Troy Polamalu.
Fautanu is listed at 6’4, 317 pounds, which makes him undersized, but he does have a 34-inch arm length, so it should play out well at the tackle position.
Coming out of college, Fautanu was rated an excellent, pass blocking lineman. As a matter of fact, he allowed only two sacks and five QB hits, in his final two seasons combined at Washington. Fautanu’s run blocking skills however leave some to be desired. Most scouts point to his lack of technique in the run game, which is something he’ll look to iron out at the pro level.
Numerous mock drafts actually had Fautanu projected mid-first round. ESPN’s Mel Kiper in particular had Fautanu going #10 on his draft board.
Assessment: The selection of Fautanu is a solid choice. Personally, I would’ve thought the Steelers would go with Oregon’s Jackson Powers-Johnson, given Pittsburgh’s need for a center, but I’m certainly not going to complain with Fautanu being the pick.
Fautanu’s pass blocking skills are really off the charts, and it’s something that would be vital to protecting Russell Wilson, who is not as mobile a quarterback as he used to be. In addition, Fautanu gives the Steelers a capable, plug-and-play guy on the O-line, with the ability to handle both tackle and guard in a pinch.
Pirates to Recall Quinn Priester
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p/c: Benjamin B. Braun - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
On Thursday, the Pittsburgh Pirates placed Quinn Priester on the taxi squad, which means he’s expected to be recalled by the team to start tomorrow’s series opener versus the Boston Red Sox at PNC Park.
Priester will be taking Marco Gonzales’ spot in the rotation, for the time being. Gonzales was put on the 15-day injured list this past weekend, due to a left forearm strain.
Last season as a rookie, Priester struggled immensely with Pittsburgh. In 10 games, eight of which were starts, he posted an ERA of 7.74.
Priester entered spring training vying for one of the two opens spots, within the Pirates’ rotation. Unfortunately, for the 23-year-righty, he lost out to both Jared Jones and Bailey Falter. As a result, he was optioned to AAA to begin 2024.
In his first three starts with the Indianapolis Indians, Priester has a 3.95 ERA, along with a terrific, 1.90 FIP, and a batting average against of .226. He also has struck out 20 batters in 13.2 innings of work.
Jeff Carter Set to Retire
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Following the Penguins’ season finale loss to the New York Islanders on Wednesday night, Jeff Carter has said that he will be hanging up the skates for good, as the 39-year-old forward is retiring.
It was a fitting end to Carter’s career, scoring one of the Penguins’ four goals.
The Penguins acquired Carter from the Los Angeles Kings at the 2021 trade deadline.
In January of 2022, Pittsburgh signed Carter to a two-year extension.
Carter was set to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2023-24 season. In 72 games, he scored 11 goals.
During his 19-year NHL career, with the Philadelphia Flyers, Columbus Blue Jackets, Los Angeles Kings, and Pittsburgh Penguins, Carter tallied 442 goals, while recording 409 assists.
While with Los Angeles, Carter captured a pair of Stanley Cup titles in 2012 and 2014. He was also a two-time All-Star, with the Flyers in 2009, and the Kings in 2017.
Pirates Must Let Nick Gonzales Sink or Swim At the Big League Level
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p/c: Christopher Horner - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
As if being a first-year general manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates wasn’t already an adjustment, for Ben Cherington entering 2020, there was the Covid pandemic, which added another interesting wrinkle.
Pittsburgh had the seventh overall pick in the ‘20 MLB Draft. Cherington’s first selection as Pirates GM was Nick Gonzales.
For most scouts, the consensus was Gonzales being the best pure hitter in that year’s draft. Based on the video game type numbers he put up at New Mexico State, it was hard to argue.
Entering last year, Gonzales was playing for the Indianapolis Indians. It was on June 23rd that his contract was selected by the Pirates, which placed him on both the 40-man and active roster.
Gonzales slashed .257/.370/.450, before his call up to Pittsburgh. His first taste of the bigs didn’t go as planned, as he posted a .216/.268/.353 line, and was optioned back to AAA on August 3rd. He found himself getting recalled on September 26th, where he played in the Pirates’ final four games of the season.
2023 had major growing pains for Gonzales, as an MLB rookie. The hitting metrics below certainly tell the story.
Gonzales simply did very little at the plate overall with the Pirates - most notably the lack of consistent contact. Plenty of swing & miss was also a factor, as it led to a 28.1% strikeout rate. Perhaps the one saving grace, if you can call it that, was Gonzales doing an okay job of not chasing a lot of pitches out of the zone.
Defensively, Gonzales played second base, as well as shortstop in Pittsburgh - the latter having mainly to due with needing options to fill in, for an injured Oneil Cruz. Gonzales rated out as subpar at both middle infield positions.
Heading into spring training, the Pirates were set to have a competition at second base. Gonzales was of course one of the candidates, along with Liover Peguero and Jared Triolo. In the end, Triolo came out victorious, to be the starting second baseman on Opening Day.
So far in the early going, Gonzales has been red hot with Indianapolis. In 14 games, he’s hit safely in 13 of those. The one game Gonzales didn’t record a hit, he got on base with a walk. The slash line is currently .362/.413/.552. In addition, he has eight doubles, which leads the International League.
Aside from Gonzales’ overall plate production, he’s done better work of decreasing the K rate at 19.0%. Last season, while with the Indians, he struck out at a 26.6% clip. With the lower strikeout rate has come a lower walk rate at 6.3% - almost cut in half compared to ‘23 (12.0%), so it seems Gonzales is willing to sacrifice some free passes, if it means cutting down on the strikeouts.
For Gonzales, he’s looking to return to Pittsburgh sooner rather than later. Once Gonzales does rejoin the Pirates, he should be given an extensive opportunity, to be the second baseman, which would allow manager Derek Shelton to have Triolo in his more suited role as a utility infielder. Without sounding exaggerated, Gonzales’ next time up needs to be a make or break situation.
Is Jared Jones Already Living Up to the Hype?
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Coming out of the offseason, the Pittsburgh Pirates would have a competition within their starting rotation, with two spots up for grabs. Among the starters vying for one of those spots in spring training was Jared Jones.
Jones entered 2024 as the third best prospect in the Pirates’ organization, according to MLB Pipeline.
Not only did Jones dominate hitters during Grapefruit League play, but he was Pittsburgh’s best starter, as he threw 16.1 innings, allowing three runs, all unearned, and posting a WHIP of 0.94.
As it turned out, Pirates’ management made the pleasantly surprising decision to place Jones on the team’s Opening Day roster, which marked the first time a Pirates starting pitching opened up a season on an MLB roster, without any service time, since Kris Benson in 1999.
On March 30th, Jones would make his official MLB debut against the Miami Marlins at LoanDepot Park. The 22-year-old righty went 5.2 innings, while giving up three runs. However, he issued just two walks, and struck out 10 - becoming the first Pirates rookie pitcher to record 10 strikeouts in a debut since Tim Wakefield did it in 1992.
Jones would get the nod to pitch in the Pirates’ home opener on April 5th. Facing a tough, Baltimore Orioles’ lineup, Jones held his own by going six innings, allowing a pair of runs, walking none, and striking out seven.
The third start for Jones came on Thursday versus the Phillies’ lineup. Although Jones gave up three earned in 6.1 innings pitched, he didn’t walk a batter, and put up eight strikeouts.
Through his first three starts, here are where Jones’ metrics look to this point:
The power fastball has been on full display for Jones, averaging the heater right at 97. He’s been inducing plenty of swing & miss, as well as chase. As for the whiff rate, Jones is registering a ridiculous, 48.4% with his slider.
For Jones, it’s been pretty much a two-pitch approach, throwing the fastball at 45.7% and the slider at 41.7%. His curveball and changeup have only been used sparingly at 8.7% and 3.9% respectively.
While it’s easy to get caught up in the velocity shown by Jones, the ability to command the fastball and slider is really strong, in the very early stages of his big league career.
So this begs the question - Is Jones already living up to the hype of his upside?
Through his first three starts, Jones’ ERA sits at 4.00, but with a 2.38 xFIP. In 18 innings, he’s struck out 25 (12.5 K/9) and walked only two (1.0 BB/9). Among NL starters, Jones currently has the eighth lowest WHIP at 0.94.
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of Jones is how he’s been able to keep his emotions in check, especially being only 22. Jones has made no bones about the fact that he considers himself an extreme competitor on the mound.
Obviously, I’m not prepared to deem Jones as a perennial, All-Star pitcher based on just a few starts. But that being said, I do think he’s definitely been as advertised. How high Jones’ ceiling could be with the Pirates will be fun to witness.
Steelers Open to Bringing Back Patrick Peterson
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p/c: Ed Thompson
On Monday, Mike Tomlin was present, for the AFC Coaches Breakfast at the NFL Owners Meeting in Orlando. One of the topics asked to Tomlin was about a Patrick Peterson return, with the Steelers head coach being open to the idea of bringing back the former All-Pro. Peterson himself mentioned recently on his All Things Covered podcast that he and Tomlin had a phone conversation regarding a possible return.
Last offseason, the Steelers came to terms with Peterson on a two-year contract worth $14 million.
Peterson entered 2023 as one of Pittsburgh’s outside corners. Perhaps age was catching up, as he vastly struggled in that spot during the first half of the season.
With the steady, emergence of rookie Joey Porter Jr, Peterson was relegated to a slot corner role, and to his credit, performed better.
Behind the scenes, Peterson had served as a mentor to Porter - something that helped Porter become a finalist for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year this past season.
Due just over $9.7 million for 2024, the Steelers made the obvious decision to release Peterson, which they did on March 8th.
Pittsburgh’s slot corner depth is very thin right now. The only two moves that Omar Khan has made in the secondary to this point was acquiring outside CB Donte Jackson from the Carolina Panthers, in the Diontae Johnson trade, and signing DeShon Elliott to a two-year deal to be the starting SS.
Given the Steelers’ need for a veteran slot corner, as well as his relationship with Mike Tomlin, a Peterson return on an inexpensive deal seems like a good bet. Although it’s probable that the team would re-sign Peterson after next month’s draft.