Pirates’ Fans Should Hope For Best, Expect Worst In Offseason

Sep 20, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Milwaukee Brewers pinch hitter Elian Herrera (3) slides home past Pittsburgh Pirates catcher Russell Martin (55) to score the games only run during the ninth inning at PNC Park. The Brewers won 1-0. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

The Pittsburgh Pirates have to make some major decisions during the offseason, but fans should expect little to nothing from management that talks a lot but has done little when changes need to be made.

Sure the Pirates’ higher-ups have taken chances with Francisco Liriano, Russell Martin and Edinson Volquez, but with contracts up, it is unlikely any of the trio will be back.

These non-moves are just more of the same in Pittsburgh. Fans have allowed this because of the back-to-back postseason appearances. However, the National League Central is looking like it will only be better next season. The Milwaukee Brewers had a huge lead in the division before eventually falling off late in 2014. The lineup and staff are solid and a move could pump the team up to the next level. The St. Louis Cardinals will be tough because that’s just what they are. There is talent all over the place and management consistently makes the correct decision. Even the Chicago Cubs will be better next season. The hiring of manager Joe Maddon perfectly fits the team. Maddon has been traditionally brilliant at handling young players and the North Siders have the best young talent — especially offensively — in the division. Maddon will get the most out of his players.

The Pirates have a very solid team coming back, but Martin will no longer be there and regression to the mean has to be expected for Jordy Mercer. Gregory Polanco has the tools to be a game-changing player, but many believed the same about Pedro Alvarez. Alvarez should be traded, but will most likely be back. The pitching staff needs a solid innings-eater. While there are some options out there, most are projects.

The Pirates definitely need to make a big trade or sign a significant player, but there is no reason to believe that will happen no matter how much the management talks.