Pirates' short-stint stars of the 2010s: A rollercoaster ride from worst to best

The 2010s were a vibrant decade for the Pittsburgh Pirates, a time when legends like Andrew McCutchen, Josh Harrison, and Gerrit Cole left their indelible marks on the franchise. However, amid the stars, there were also some fleeting figures—players whose time with the team was too brief to make a lasting impact, yet memorable enough to be noted.

To be classified as a “Short Stint Pirate,” position players needed to have spent less than two seasons with the team, while pitchers needed to have made fewer than 40 appearances. Let’s dive into this eclectic mix of talent, ranking them from the least effective to the surprisingly impactful.

5 Short Stint Pirates of the 2010s, Ranked From Worst to Best

(The Misfire) Ryan Vogelsong

Once a beacon of hope in Pittsburgh, Ryan Vogelsong returned to the Pirates in 2016, a veteran looking to add depth to the rotation. Having made 103 appearances earlier in his career, one might have expected a grand comeback. Instead, Vogelsong struggled, finishing with a 3-7 record and a 4.81 ERA. It was a bitter farewell for the two-time World Series champion, who couldn’t find his footing in his final dance in the big leagues, leaving fans longing for the promise of his past.

(The Disappointment) Justin Morneau

In a bid to break a 22-year postseason drought, the Pirates made headlines by acquiring former MVP Justin Morneau at the 2013 trade deadline. Hopes were high after a power-packed August, but Morneau's time in black and gold was anything but explosive. With zero home runs and just three RBI in 25 games, he fell flat, leaving fans to ponder what could have been. Despite respectable on-base numbers, Morneau’s lack of power left a gaping hole in the lineup when it was needed most.

(The Surprise Star) Edinson Vólquez

When Edinson Vólquez signed a modest one-year deal with the Pirates in December 2013, few expected him to become a standout. Yet, in a stunning turnaround, he emerged as the ace of the pitching staff, boasting a 3.04 ERA and a stellar 2.5 WAR. Vólquez’s 2014 season was a renaissance, propelling the Pirates to another playoff appearance and earning him a lucrative contract with the Royals. His journey from underdog to star is a testament to his resilience and the unpredictable nature of baseball.

(The Game-Changer) J.A. Happ

Acquired from the Mariners in a low-risk, high-reward move, J.A. Happ was poised to reignite his faltering career. And reignite he did! With a jaw-dropping second half where he posted a 1.85 ERA and a 211 ERA+, Happ was instrumental in leading the Pirates to 98 wins and a postseason berth. His brief but brilliant 11-game stint not only transformed the Pirates' fortunes but also revitalized his big-league dreams, culminating in a lucrative deal with the Blue Jays.

(The Outfield Savior) Corey Dickerson

After the emotional departure of McCutchen, the Pirates found themselves in dire need of outfield talent. Enter Corey Dickerson—a player who may not have been a superstar, but certainly became a fan favorite. Acquired from the Rays, Dickerson dazzled in 2018, slashing an impressive .300/.330/.474 while earning a Gold Glove for his defensive prowess. In just 179 games across two seasons, he racked up 4.1 WAR, 17 homers, and 80 RBI, proving to be a crucial piece of the puzzle during a time of transition for the franchise.

In the tapestry of the Pirates’ history during the 2010s, these short-term players may not have worn the black and gold for long, but their stories are woven with moments of hope, heartache, and unexpected triumph. Each one adds a layer to the rich narrative of this beloved franchise.