These 3 Pirates non-roster invitee relievers were winners at spring training

As always, lots of players who struggle in the regular season really put on a show in spring training to earn roster spots. As of this moment in time, though, there's still hope that this trio of Pittsburgh breakouts can parlay their spring success into regular season stardom.

The Pirates had three non-roster invitees pitch really well this spring, and one even cracked the big league bullpen. Let's take a look at these three arms and how they performed this spring.

These three non-roster relievers pitched very well for the Pirates this spring training.

Ryan Borucki

Ryan Borucki just won a spot in the bullpen following his strong spring, and got healthy just in time. Coming off an outstanding 2023 season, Borucki dealt with elbow problems all of 2024, and when he finally got back to Pittsburgh, he was ineffective and not his usual self. He came to spring training as a non-roster invitee and completely impressed, earning his spot back in Pittsburgh.

This spring, Borucki tossed 9.2 innings and allowed just one earned run. He also gave up five hits and five walks, while striking out 14. His spring ERA ended at 0.93, which is very impressive. Hopefully he can use this momentum from spring to replicate his impressive 2023 season.

Tanner Rainey

Tanner Rainey was definitely an option to crack the team in Pittsburgh, but he did not ultimately make the roster. He has been an inconsistent reliever in his career, yet he performed very well this spring. Even though Rainey remains off of the 40-man roster, if he finds a groove, he may find his way into the bullpen soon.

In spring training, Rainey delivered eight innings, allowing one earned run, two hits, and two walks. That generated an impressive WHIP of just 0.50. He also struck out 12 batters. It was a very strong spring performance that he needs to continue into the season in Triple-A.

Eddy Yean

Lastly is Eddy Yean, the lone piece of the Josh Bell trade still with the Pirates. This trade appeared to be one of the worst during Ben Cherington's tenure, but after the 2024 season, it's starting to finally look better. Yean has completely turned things around and is looking like an option to try in the bullpen this season.

This spring, Yean tossed 7.1 scoreless innings. He also allowed five hits and three walks, while striking out six. Given his three consecutive seasons with an ERA over five, this turnaround in the last year is quite impressive.