Dodgers release could give Pirates exactly what their infield needs

The Pittsburgh Pirates have bigger problems than just their infield depth, but that doesn't mean they should ignore an opportunity when one presents itself.

The latest opportunity arrived Thursday when the Los Angeles Dodgers released former San Francisco Giants utility man Tyler Fitzgerald, a player who is only two years removed from looking like one of the more intriguing breakout candidates in the National League.

No, Fitzgerald isn't the same player who slashed .280/.334/.497 with 15 home runs and a 132 wRC+ for San Francisco in 2024. The version of Fitzgerald that bounced between the Giants, Toronto Blue Jays and Dodgers organizations over the past year has looked much more like a fringe roster player than a future everyday contributor. Still, if you're the Pirates, it's an opportunity worth exploring.

Pirates should kick the tires on Tyler Fitzgerald following Dodgers release

At the moment, Pittsburgh's infield depth is alarmingly thin. Konnor Griffin is still on the IL without a clear return timeline. Nick Gonzales has struggled defensively at third base, posting poor defensive metrics throughout the season. Jared Triolo remains valuable because of his glove but has yet to establish himself offensively. Tyler Callihan is still learning on the job, while the Pirates continue searching for answers behind Gonzales and Brandon Lowe.

Even if the bat never fully returns, Fitzgerald brings the versatility the Pirates desperately need. He has experience at every infield position and can also handle outfield duties.

There's also reason to believe there might still be something left offensively. After struggling badly in the majors and Triple-A last season, Fitzgerald appeared to find his footing again with Triple-A Oklahoma City this year. In 24 games with the Dodgers' affiliate, he posted a strong .293/.400/.598 slash line, showing the combination of power and athleticism that made him such an intriguing player in the first place.

Of course, none of this guarantees a Major League rebound. But this is exactly the type of low-risk move the Pirates should be exploring. Fitzgerald would cost virtually nothing beyond a minor league contract and a roster spot in Indianapolis. If he looks healthy once he recovers from his current injury, Pittsburgh could evaluate him without making any significant commitment.

The Pirates aren't in a position to ignore upside plays. Fitzgerald may never recapture the form that made him one of baseball's most surprising breakout stories in 2024, but his versatility, athleticism and recent Triple-A production make him worth a closer look.

For an organization searching for infield answers almost everywhere it looks, that's enough reason to make the call.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow