Should the Pirates be interested in Xavier Cedeno?

Should a recently non-tendered left-handed relief pitcher be on the Pirates’ radar as Major Leauge Baseball’s Winter Meetings loom?

Last week, the Tampa Bay Rays non-tendered left-handed relief pitcher Xavier Cedeno making him a free agent. According to Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, the Pirates are interested in Cedeno.

So, should the Bucs have interest in the veteran lefty?

The 31-year-old Xavier Cedeno pitched in just three innings in 2017 due to injuries. Therefore, 2017 can be thrown out the window when evaluating Cedeno.

Prior to 2017, Cedeno had a strong five year stretch from 2012 – 2016. During these five seasons Xavier Cedeno pitched in 137 2/3 innings allowing 131 hits, just 10 home runs, averaging 3.20 BB/9, and 9.15 K/9. Cedeno owned a 3.53 ERA and a 3.21 FIP from 2012 – 2016.

What Xavier Cedeno has done best in his Major League career is limit left-handed hitters. Left-handed hitters own just a .286 on-base percentage,299 slugging percentage, and a .262 wOBA off of Cedeno in his career.

One thing the Pittsburgh Pirates’ bullpen is lack for the 2018 season is an additional left-handed pitcher. Xavier Cedeno has the tools needed to be this pitcher. So, to answer the original question, yes the Pittsburgh Pirates should pursue Xavier Cedeno.

While Cedeno has evolved into a LOOGY (left-handed one out guy) at this stage of his career, but that is something the Pirate bullpen needs in 2016. With the Pirates being in a division featuring hitters such as Joey Votto, Kyle Schwarber, Matt Carpenter, and Travis Shaw, among others, having a pitcher like Cedeno can be a real weapon for a bullpen.

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Left-handed reliever Xavier Cedeno is a pitcher that makes a lot of sense for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Factor in the Pirates having interest in him, and he is a name worth monitoring as the off-season progresses.