Pittsburgh Pirates: Three More Players to Consider in the Rule 5 Draft

AMARILLO, TEXAS - JULY 31: Outfielder Dominic Canzone #14 of the Amarillo Sod Poodles hits a home run during the game against the Corpus Christi Hooks at HODGETOWN Stadium on July 31, 2022 in Amarillo, Texas. (Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images)
AMARILLO, TEXAS - JULY 31: Outfielder Dominic Canzone #14 of the Amarillo Sod Poodles hits a home run during the game against the Corpus Christi Hooks at HODGETOWN Stadium on July 31, 2022 in Amarillo, Texas. (Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

Erik Miller LHP – Philadephia Phillies

This guyshould be a no brainer if the Pittsburgh Pirates are looking to add some left handed pitching depth on to this 26-man roster. Erik Miller is currently the #7 prospect on the Phillies Top 30 list according to MLB Pipeline. He pitched 36.1 innings last season in AA mostly coming out of the bullpen and had an impressive 2.23 ERA striking out 44 batters and walking 17.

After the Pirates designated Manny Banuelos for assignment, there is no one on the this roster that is left handed that can pitch. I think this could be a very good selection if the Pirates decide to draft a pitcher with their 1st round pick. He needs to improve his command, but his stuff is there to be a very good left handed pitcher out of the bullpen.

The Pirates will definitely find some left handed pitchers during this off-season, but this would be a good place to start. Miller made the Futures All-Star game for good reason and could be a steal if he shines this season. Time will tell what Ben Cherington and company will do Dec.7th, but going with an arm would never be a bad option for this club.