Rum Bunter Radio: Breaking Down Choi, Santana, Other Moves

In this episode of Rum Bunter Radio, the crew returns to discuss the Pittsburgh Pirates active start to the 2022-2023 offseason.

We start the show by taking a look at some of the new veteran power being added to the Pittsburgh Pirates lineup. A low-risk trade brings in Ji-Man Choi, and a free-agent contract will add another first-base option in Carlos Santana.

Bob Nutting, Ben Cherrington, and the rest of Pittsburgh’s front office suggest that they will field a team with the intention of playing competitive baseball on a nightly basis; something we haven’t seen since the regime arrived on the North Shore.

Where will these two slot into a lineup with little major-league experience? How much of an impact can each make at this point in their career?

This news came in conjunction with headlines of Kevin Newman’s departure from the organization. A trade with the Cincinnati Reds sends Newman south and will bring in right-handed pitcher Dauri Moreta.

The guys project what is next, and what will unfold at the rapidly approaching Winter Meetings. How will the club address a bullpen in drastic need of major league-ready help? Will the Pirates add another veteran starter as we’ve seen the past few seasons?

To close out the episode Marty and Trey take a dive into expectations for the 2022 season, and the changes to expectations from the time Ben Cherrington took office to the stretch we find ourselves in now.

Offseason madness is officially here, and the Pittsburgh Pirates are a willing participant. Batten down the hatches, clear the decks, and enjoy this episode of Rum Bunter Radio!

As the Winter Meetings come to a conclusion and the Bryan Reynolds saga continues to heat up be sure to turn on notifications for Rum Bunter Radio, and don’t forget to follow us on Twitter @RumBunter for immediate reactions to moves and updates.