Pittsburgh Pirates 2023 Opening Day Roster Prediction: Version 4.0

Feb 25, 2023; Bradenton, Florida, USA;  Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Roansy Contreras (59)
Feb 25, 2023; Bradenton, Florida, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Roansy Contreras (59) / Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports
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Bullpen - David Bednar, Wil Crowe, Colin Holderman, Jarlín García, Jose Hernandez, Chase De Jong, Duane Underwood Jr.

Again, it would not be a surprise to see Brubaker or Velasquez join this group. But for now, this is the bullpen we will project. It's not the bullpen that I would like to see head north to Cincinnati, but it's the one I think we'll see.

Yerry De Los Santos deserves a spot, but having minor league options while Chase De Jong and Duane Underwood Jr. do not will likely leave him without a spot. Although, Underwood Jr. will likely enter the season with a pretty short leash.

Seeing top relief pitching prospect Colin Selby crack the Opening Day bullpen would also be intriguing. But, like De Los Santos, having minor league options likely leads to him starting the season in the Indianapolis bullpen.

One change on this list from the last roster prediction is Robert Stephenson. Due to elbow inflammation, Stephenson is not currently pitching off a mound. With Opening Day 29 days away, it looks like Stephenson will start the season on the injured list. If he is healthy, he likely takes Underwood Jr.'s spot.

Next. Increased Slider Usage Could Benefit Chase De Jong. dark