Buc Notes: March 15, 2016

Despite a great spring effort from Harold Ramirez in the Pirates outfield, he is one of the eight players that was sent down from the major league clubhouse.  His offensive spark wasn’t lost on those that followed the action down in the Grapefruit League.  He went 11 for 19 and clubbed a pair of nice extra base hits.

General Manager Neal Huntington talked to Travis Sawchik of the Tribune-Review about Ramirez, offering this up about the inevitable frustration of being sent back down:  “It’s a frustrating thing for a young man that wants to be there right now, but if we can continue to be conservative in their development path and allow them time to learn and make adjustments … that’s a tremendous learning experience”.

Michael Morse, of course, is a candidate. He’s played more outfield than any other position in his long career. And he’s batting .333 so far this spring.  Even with the acquisition of David Freese, Morse still appears to be a vital linchpin providing additional depth foe 1B/OF and a veteran bat for pinch hitting purposes.

The prospects, other than Ramirez, aren’t giving much reason for hope.  Willy Garcia and Danny Ortiz are having terrible spring trainings – both are batting .143 so far.  Jake Goebbert doesn’t have the offense. Only time will tell, but three weeks before the season begins the Pirates might not have a proven or trusted fourth outfield option.  What do you think?