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Number 9 – Pirates Acquire Joe Blanton
Veteran right hander Joe Blanton was having a nice bounce back season in 2015 with the Kansas City Royals. However, they apparently viewed him as a spare piece they did not need. As a result, Blanton was designated for assignment by the Royals on July 28.
Due to the DFA, all the Pirates had to give up for Blanton was cash. This turned out to be one of the best trades the Pirates made during their 2015 run that ended in 98 victories. Blanton pitched in 34.1 innings in 21 games, and posted a 1.57 ERA, 2.11 FIP, and 1.02 WHIP. He gave up just 1 home run, while walking just 9 batters. He had struck out 39 batters in the short amount of time.
Because of his performance, he was thrown into more high-leverage situations down the stretch by then manager Clint Hurdle. This was a move that would pay off for Hurdle. By the end of the season the Pirates had one of the most dominant bullpens in team history, and one that consisted of 7 reliable relievers. Blanton was a big part of this bullpen and team.