Pirates Release Casey Sadler

The Pirates have released RHP Casey Sadler, who has been recovering from Tommy John surgery since October. He will likely miss the 2016 season, which dealt a blow to minor and major league pitching depth anyway. Sadler will be 26 next season, so its not a huge loss on the prospect side of things as he projected as no better than a casual spot-starter or relief swingman; but given the recent injury history of the Pirates’ minor league pitchers, it would have been nice to have another serviceable arm in the system.

Over the course of his career, he has only accumulated 15.1 career Major League innings, where he pitched with mixed results. In the minors, he posted solid numbers in several roles, though was never considered a top prospect, mainly due to his underwhelming projections as a strictly average depth pitcher in the organization compared to the likes of Taillon, Glasnow, and Kingham.

Despite his injury, it is likely the Pirates could bring him back on another deal to retain his rights. Given the pitching situation of the current squad and the recent flurry of signings, it’s clear the Pirates could use as many arms as they can hold in the organization. Unfortunately for Sadler, the timing of his surgery is terrible as not only does he lose out on an entire year, but he is also eligible for minor league free agency following the 2016 season. If the Pirates do resign him, look for him to try to bounce back as a quality pitcher in 2017.