Ex-MLB GM predicts powerful Pirates trade target who could replace Andrew McCutchen

Andrew McCutchen may have played his last game in a Pirates uniform, as recent quotes indicate he could sign elsewhere to chase a ring in his twilight years. McCutchen has held down DH for the last three seasons and, as hard as it is to say it, letting him walk could help the team. In fact, it would really help the team if Jim Bowden's recent trade prediction for the Pirates comes true.

Bowden labeled Jo Adell as a star likely to be traded this offseason. He noted that the Angels must rebuild their starting rotation, which ranked 28th in ERA and 29th in WHIP last season. Three of their starters became free agents, too, so they desperately need pitching, especially with control. After mentioning Adell, Bowden stated that the "Pirates could have interest."

Adell is coming off his best season of his career, belting 37 home runs with 98 RBI and a .778 OPS. His power is excellent and he adds great offensive metrics, bringing a barrel rate (17.3%) and xSLG (.565) in the 96th percentile, a hard-hit rate (50%) in the 87th percentile, and an average exit velocity (91.7 mph) in the 86th percentile.

The upside is all there, but he is not an all-around offensive threat, possessing a poor .293 OBP that doesn't play well in the modern game. Additionally, he chases pitches at a 32.6% rate and whiffs at a 28.5% clip. Those numbers are not great by any means, yet he is still 26 with former top prospect pedigree. There's lots of time to improve on that, making him worthy of a trade.

Who could the Angels want from the Pirates? Mitch Keller would make sense, as would Mike Burrows. Both are controllable starters. Keller has proven more, consistently giving 30+ outings a year, but does come with an expensive deal around $18 million AAV for the next three years. Burrows is coming off a solid rookie year, but lacks experience. These two make the most sense to dangle in a package of moderate size. It would be tough to see Braxton Ashcraft, Bubba Chandler, or Hunter Barco in a trade centered around Adell. The Pirates might need to add another piece with a Keller or Burrows, especially if they have to battle a rival for Adell (and depending on how much money Anaheim is willing to eat).

Ex-MLB GM labels Jo Adell as a star trade target for the Pirates, as well as rival Reds.

Bowden also added the Reds as a team that could have interest as well. Similar to Pittsburgh, Cincinnati has a surplus of pitching to deal from. That could be a difficult battle for Adell, especially since the Reds just went to the playoffs and aren't as tight financially.

This target is very interesting for the Pirates. Adell could bring a much needed power bat to the middle of the lineup. While he lacks some abilities, he could very well become a strong DH to replace McCutchen. Pittsburgh needs some sort of spark to their offense. Adell could do just that. Give it a shot, Ben!