Pittsburgh Pirates Trade Daniel Vogelbach to the New York Mets

Prior to the start of their three-game series against the Miami Marlins on Friday evening the Pittsburgh Pirates traded designated hitter Daniel Vogelbach to the New York Mets

Trade season is here. With the MLB trade deadline now just 10 days away, the Pittsburgh Pirates have made their first major trade of the season. Friday evening they traded designated hitter Daniel Vogelbach the New York Mets in exchange for reliever Colin Holderman.

Holderman appears to be a strong pick up for the Pittsburgh Pirates. In 17.2 innings pitched this season the 26-year-old Holderman has posted a 2.04 ERA and a 2.26 FIP. While he’s walked 10.4% of batters faced, he has also struck out 26.9% of opposing batters and has not allowed a home run. Holderman comes with six years of team control beyond this season, and could join the strong bullpen core of David Bednar, Wil Crowe, Duane Underwood Jr., and Yerry De Los Santos, while helping to address the team’s need for bullpen help.

Voglebach has been the team’s second best hitter this season behind Bryan Reynolds. The lefty designated hitter hit for a .228/.338/.430 slash line, 118 wRC+ and a 117 OPS+ this season. Vogelbach has a $1.5 million team option for next season, which makes trading him debatable. There is certainly an argument to be made that the Pirates would have been better off keeping Vogelbach, or at least looking or a slightly stronger return.

Earlier this month we talked about the Mets being a potential trade partner for Vogelbach. Holderman was even identified as a potential target in Vogelbach trade talks.

Prior to the start of Friday night’s game outfielder Greg Allen was activated off the 60-day injured list to take Vogelbach’s spot on the roster. To make room for Allen on the 40-man roster catcher Michael Perez was designated for assignment.

Look for Holderman to join the Pirate bullpen in the next day or two. To make room for Holderman righty Tyler Beede, as well as lefties Manny Bañuelos and Dillon Peters could be candidates to be designated or assignment.

While Vogelbach was not in Pittsburgh long he quickly became a fan favorite. He was a great hitter for the Pirates, as well as being a good mentor for their young hitters.