These Pittsburgh Pirates must play 150 games in 2015

Sep 25, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates left fielder

(6) watches the action from the dugout in the sixth inning of their game against the Atlanta Braves at Turner Field. The Pirates won 10-1. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

It’s no big secret that everyone is expecting a big year out of Starling Marte.  And why wouldn’t they, what with his amazing numbers in the second half of the season.  For 2015, I fully believe that as Marte goes, so will the Pirates.  With the loss of Martin, Marte’s position in the second third of the lineup becomes ever more crucial.  Likely batting fifth or sixth will afford Marte plenty of RBI chances, and any lengthy absence of his bat in the lineup will hinder the burgeoning Pirate offense.  Marte had shown last year that his plate discipline could get better with each passing game, and this fact alone could provide many RBI chances for whoever bats behind him.  Add stellar defense to the mix, and it’s clear that Marte is almost irreplaceable, which is a great compliment to him this early in his career.

Above all others, the choice for the most important Pirate for 2015 should not be a surprise to anyone.

Next: The single most irreplaceable Pirate