Five New Years Resolutions for the Pittsburgh Pirates

Improving catcher

Luke Maile was signed to a one-year contract earlier this off season by the Pirates.  This comes after Elias Diaz was non-tendered by the team back in early December.

The only current catchers on the 40-man roster are Maile and Jacob Stallings. With Maile’s lackluster offensive numbers and a minor league option remaining, the Pirates should be looking to acquire a more capable catcher to split time with Stallings at the big league level.

There are a couple of catchers the Pirates can still sign in free agency.  Robinson Chirinos and old-friend Russell Martin come to mind as some potential players the Pirates could sign.

Chirinos is the better offensive catcher of the two having slashed .238/.347/.443 with 17 homers for the Astros in 2019.  He is also a solid defensive catcher but will turn 36 in June and may be looking for an opportunity with a clear-cut contender.

Then, there is Russell Martin, who played for the Pirates in 2013 and 2014.  Martin, who will be 37 on Opening Day, is still looking to play next season and what better place than with the team he enjoyed so much success with in two seasons? Aside from being a great player on the field, Martin quickly became a fan favorite during his time in Pittsburgh.  While the offensive numbers have not been as great in recent seasons, Martin is still a fine defensive catcher which is big with a young staff.

Whether by signing a free agent or acquiring a younger, MLB ready catcher in a potential trade, this is a position that still needs to be addressed.