Pirates Reassign Jameson Taillon, Make First Moves of Camp

Feb 13, 2014; Bradenton, FL, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Jameson Taillon at Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Pirates have announced that some of their most talented players are being sent to refine their skills.  The Bucs have optioned Alen Hanson and left-hander Joely Rodriguez to Altoona.  Casey Sadler has been optioned to Indianapolis.

The Pirates reassigned Jameson Taillon, Matt Hague, Carlos Paulino to minor league camp.  The Pirates now have 53 players in Major League camp.

Hanson looked like a solid option in the Pirates future with his play at shortstop this spring.  The surprise of camp was the southpaw named Rodriguez–no, not that one although Wandy is still healthy.  Joely Rodriguez was named to the roster this offseason and his work in some limited early action in Grapefruit League games showed why.

Jameson Taillon was on the lips of many as being ready for big time action.  After his defense let him down this weekend, those cries have softened.  Taillon was wild and showed there is still some improvement to be made before he gets to the big leagues.  Sending him down after a disappointing outing will provide some instant motivation to make those final improvements to his game the Pirates staff is looking for this season.

Paulino had some good at bats this spring and will be a sleeper catching candidate to keep an eye on this year.  The kid has a freaking cannon which will offset some of the weakness that many see in his offensive game.  If you get an opportunity to watch Paulino this year,  have your cameras ready.