Pittsburgh Pirates: Trade Deadline Report Card

But as puzzling as the trade deadline was, the biggest problem with the Pittsburgh Pirates is the way they handle their pre-deadline roster.

The fact that Jung Ho Kang and Josh Harrison continue to be put on the field while Adam Frazier rides the pine is not Neil Huntington’s fault. The fact that John Jaso continues to hit in the leadoff role instead of Frazier or Jordy Mercer is not Neil Huntington’s fault. The fact that Andrew McCutchen is not in a platoon role with Matt Joyce (or at least moved down in the batting order) is not Neil Huntington’s fault. That’s Clint Hurdle’s fault. The skipper is a great guy, and his record speaks for itself, but his management of the lineup has been curious at times.

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But the fact that the pedestrian play of John Jaso is keeping Josh Bell in the minors is Neil Huntington’s fault. The fact that this rotation still consists of scrubs Jeff Locke and Ryan Vogelsong, rather than young pitchers who have room to improve, is Neil Huntington’s fault. It’s partly Huntington/Nutting’s fault that JA Happ is no longer with the team.

The Pirates did themselves no favors at the trade deadline. But that’s in the past now. It’s time to look for what the Pirates can change. All of the things mentioned above should be no brainers. But to the ones who’s opinions matter on this topic, they aren’t. And that, Pirates fans, is where your rage should be focused.

Overall Deadline Grade: C-