Pirates' newest trade acquisition talks fresh opportunity in Pittsburgh

The Pirates very well could have acquired their shortstop of the future in the recent trade with Kansas City. In exchange for Adam Frazier, Pittsburgh received Cam Devanney, a power-hitting shortstop that has a lot of experience in Triple-A. Devanney has spent the last four seasons at the level, and that is where he will be begin his Pirates tenure as well.

His time in the minor leagues does not tell the full story, though. Devanney has done well enough in Triple-A to earn a promotion, but was mainly blocked off by Bobby Witt Jr. in the Royals infield. Now in Pittsburgh, he has Isiah Kiner-Falefa in front of him, and within two weeks, Devanney should get his shot once Kiner-Falefa is dealt at the deadline.

Cam Devanney talks to Rum Bunter about the new opportunity he has with the Pirates.

For now, though, he will continue to get work in with a different Triple-A affiliate. On the year, Devanney has belted 18 home runs with a 24.3% strikeout rate and a 137 wRC+. He is looking forward to this fresh start and is ready to get to work in a new organization.

"It's always nice getting a fresh start," Devanney explained. "I've heard great things about the organization and I hear it's a great group of guys in Indy and Pittsburgh, so I'm excited to get to work and finish the year strong."

This new opportunity was unexpected for Devanney, as he was woken up by the news Wednesday morning by a call from the Royals' assistant GM.

"Pretty surprised," Devanney reminisced. "I was just getting my feet wet with the Royals, so a trade wasn't really on my radar. I literally woke up on Wednesday morning to a call from our assistant GM with the Royals, so it caught me off guard for sure."

There is certainly value in acquiring Devanney and giving him an opening. The 28-year-old believes that the hardship he has gone through in his career gives him an edge over everyone else.

"I think a lot of what has made me successful is between my ears," Devanney described. "I've dealt with quite a bit of failure and I have a good grasp on how to handle the ups and downs of a full season. Everybody is talented at this level, so I'm a firm believer that your ability to manage emotions and stay confident in yourself, even when you're struggling, is what sets guys apart. That's something I feel is a strength in my game."

Pittsburgh should get excited about what he can bring to the organization, and he is ready to do whatever it takes to bring success to the team. Devanney is a true team guy and will do whatever is asked upon him to win, no matter the cost.

"The biggest thing is I'm adaptable to whatever role the team needs," Devanney stated. "I want to find ways to help the team win and I'm not too concerned with protecting my ego. Whatever the team needs from me, I will adapt to meet their needs, and I'm excited to get an opportunity."

Devanney has the tools needed to be a successful player; all he needs is the chance. Pittsburgh should be giving him that soon, and who knows? Maybe this could be the answer at shortstop they've been missing for years.