Go to big spot lefty - Ryan Borucki
When Ryan Borucki signed a minor league deal with the Pirates last May it was a move that flew under the radar of most fans. After making 8 appearances with Triple-A Indianapolis, Borucki joined the Pirate bullpen and never looked back.
In 38 appearances, Borucki pitched 40.1 innings posting a 2.45 ERA and a 3.50 FIP. He allowed just 4 home runs (0.89 HR/9), limited opponents to a .181 batting average, walked just 2.6% of opposing batters, and struck batters out at a 21.7% clip.
Will the clock strike midnight in 2024 and see Borucki turn back into a pumpkin? It's possible, but his opposing barrel rate of 6.3%, average exit velocity of 85.7 MPH, and 29.7% hard-hit rate all indicate that his success is repeatable. Regardless, Borucki has done more than enough to earn that opportuntiy out of the Pirate bullpen to begin the season.