Pittsburgh Pirates: Examining How the Jarlín García Injury Impacts the Roster

Who else could be in the mix?

If the Pittsburgh Pirates do not go with another lefty then Yerry De Los Santos could be in a position to benefit. De Los Santos pitched 25.2 MLB innings last season, posting a 4.91 ERA and striking out 26 batters.

Most of the damage done against De Los Santos came with him pitching injured in his final outing of the season before landing on the IL. Looked at as a likely big piece of the Pirate bullpen long-term, having minor league options remaining may cost De Los Santos an Opening Day roster spot. However, the García injury could now open up a roster spot for De Los Santos, who might have earned one regardless.

Fellow righty Yohan Ramirez could be in a similar boat to De Los Santos. Possibly on the outside looking in on Opening Day due to having minor league options remaining, but there could now be an open spot for Ramirez.

The Pirates acquired Ramirez in a trade last June. With the Bucs, he posted a 3.67 ERA, 3.82 FIP, 18.1% strikeout rate, and allowed just one home run in 27 innings pitched. With a plus slider and a good fastball Ramirez could be a solid MLB reliever. Even if he does not start the season in the majors, he should join the team at some point this season.

It's unlikely, but top relief pitching prospect Colin Selby and Dauri Moreta, who was acquired in the Kevin Newman trade, could be given an opportunity to crack the Opening Day roster as well. However, both are likely ticketed for Triple-A to start the season. But, like Ramirez, both should join the MLB bullpen at some point this season.