Pittsburgh Pirates: Three Trade Targets to Improve the Starting Rotation

3. Trade for Paul Blackburn - Oakland Athletics

The last trade candidate the Pittsburgh Pirates should strongly consider this offseason is right-handed pitcher, Paul Blackburn from the Oakland Athletics. The Athletics are still rebuilding their team for the 2024 season and are willing to see offers on Blackburn. The Pirates have the prospect capital to make this trade a reality and improve their depleted rotation by doing so.

Last season Blackburn had a record of 4-7 with an ERA of 4.43 in 21 games. He pitched 103.2 innings striking out 103 batters and finished with a WHIP of 1.54. He did not have the greatest stats last season, but you have to take into account he played on one of the worst teams in 2023. He would be a good middle to back end starter for the Pirates if they do in fact trade for him this winter.

Blackburn is due to make around $3.2 million dollars for the 2024 season and is under team control until 2025. He is still young at just 30 years old and would be a nice asset if he joined the Pirates for next season. The Athletics are probably looking for young prospects in this deal. A young pitcher like Michael Kennedy would likely be a good trade for both sides.