Five New Years Resolutions for the Pittsburgh Pirates

Moving two starters

Although the Pirates have yet to make any major trades this winter, there have been plenty of rumors surrounding both Starling Marte and Adam Frazier. Cherington should seek to move these players before spring training and infuse new talent in the minor league system.

Marte appears likely to be moved this off season. The Mets, Diamondbacks, Rangers, Padres and others have all been linked to the Bucs center fielder throughout this off season.

Marte is currently the biggest trade chip on the team’s roster.  He is coming off of a career-year where we hit .295 with an .845 OPS with 23 homers and 25 steals.  Marte is controlled for two more seasons at an affordable rate, making him even more appealing to potential clubs.

So far, it has been reported that a couple teams have contacted the Pirates about Adam Frazier, including the Philadelphia Phillies and Oakland A’s.

Frazier had a solid season overall in 2019, having just about a league average year offensively and being named a gold glove finalist at second base.  He is eligible for arbitration for the first time this season, making him very appealing to teams from a financial standpoint.

The Pirates also have enough depth to replace Adam Frazier.  Kevin Newman and Cole Tucker can man the middle infield positions, and Colin Moran can start the year at third base until top prospect Ke’Bryan Hayes is ready in what should be short order.

Trading Marte and Frazier are the top two trade chips could infuse a minor league system that needs reinforcements and Cherington should be looking to maximize returns on these players in the coming weeks.