Pittsburgh Pirates: Two Young Bullpen Arms Who Could Have Big Roles

The Pittsburgh Pirates have a handful of young relievers who should receive extended looks this season, but what kind of role could these two arms play?

The Pittsburgh Pirates’ bullpen has some talent, but it’s currently unstable. There are many young arms who have shown talent throughout the minor leagues, but there is certainly risk. David Bednar is the only pitcher who is guaranteed to have a defined role. While bullpens are becoming much more un-specialized, later-inning arms still have slightly more defined roles.

With the number of younger pitchers, there are no set-in-stone roles for many of the rookie relievers. But a handful will break camp with the team, and by the end of the season, could be in a more specific role such as set-up man, middle relief, long relief, high-leverage, etc. So what role will these hurlers play in 2023?