Pittsburgh Pirates: Three Potential Starting Pitcher Free Agent Targets

Left-handed pitcher Andrew Heaney

Currently the Pittsburgh Pirates only have one left-handed starting pitcher in the rotation. This of course is Steven Brault. I think the Pirates should consider signing Andrew Heaney not only because he would be another lefty, but also because he could be a viable part of the rotation.

Heaney started the year with the Los Angeles Angels, but was traded at the deadline to the New York Yankees for two prospects. Right-handed pitchers, Janson Junk and Elvis Peguero were sent to the Angels in return.

In 2021, Heaney had an overall record of 8-9 with a 5.83 ERA. He pitched in 30 games and started in 23 of them. He pitched a total of 129.2 innings and had 150 strikeouts on the year. He finished the year with a 4.85 FIP and a 1.0 WAR with the Angels and Yankees. In his career, Heaney has a 4.72 ERA with a 6.7% walk rate. He also strikes out 24.2% of his batters he faces. This could be a guy the Pittsburgh Pirates could help get his career back on track.

It was a down year for Heaney, so I believe he could be an affordable veteran option for the rotation. His final contract was for around $6.75 million. I think the Pirates could sign him for less because of his performance this past year. Hopefully Ben Cherington can get a guy like Heaney for next season.