Pittsburgh Pirates: Projecting Bullpen Roles for the Start of 2024

Sep 2, 2023; St. Louis, Missouri, USA;  Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher David Bednar (51) reacts
Sep 2, 2023; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher David Bednar (51) reacts | Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
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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.

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