Who Should The Pittsburgh Pirates Target In A Potential Trade With The Nationals?

Aug 23, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder Andrew McCutchen (22) runs the bases on his way to scoring a run against the Houston Astros during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 23, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder Andrew McCutchen (22) runs the bases on his way to scoring a run against the Houston Astros during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 7, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Lucas Giolito (44) throws against the Atlanta Braves during the fifth inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 7, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Lucas Giolito (44) throws against the Atlanta Braves during the fifth inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports /

Right-handed pitcher Lucas Giolito

Former first round pick Lucas Giolito made his Major League debut in 2016. He pitched in six games and made four starts. Even though he struggled in these outings, he still has an extremely bright future.

Giolito throws a good fastball that sits in the mid-90s. His curve ball is a big, hard breaking ball. Additionally, his change up is a plus plus pitch as well.

The 6-foot-5 255 pound Giolito is a true power pitcher. He has the ability to absolutely blow opposing hitters away. And when he is on, he can be un-hittable. Much like Lopez, Giolito was a name that the Pirates were rumored to be interested in at the trade deadline.

Lucas Giolito has all the tools needed to be a front line starting pitcher. Pairing him with Gerrit Cole and Jameson Taillon long term would give the Pirates an excellent starting rotation. This could be one of the best starting pitching trios in the National League.