Pirates Avoid Arbitration with Key Players

S. Samek

The Pittsburgh Pirates avoided arbitration with a few players, included two key pitchers. Mitch Keller, David Bednar, JT Brubaker, Connor Joe and Edward Olivares all signed deals.

Keller is going into the 2024 season as one of the more reliable arms the Pirates have. After an all-star year in 2023 he should help shore up a pitching staff that still needs a lot of work to put together this season.

Bednar is back after an all-star year as well in 2023 that saw him convert 39 saves with a 2.00 era. He gives the Pirates the consistency at the closer position and continues the great lineup of closers the Pirates have produced over the years. Good to have him back.

Edward Olivares was acquired from Kansa City earlier this offseason. Joe is coming back after signing last season and playing 133 games for the Pirates last year. He did hit a team high 31 doubles last year though, and was a former top prospect.

Brubaker missed all of the 2023 season coming off of Tommy John. He should be given a look as a back end of the rotation type of pitcher.

While it may not be a major free agent signing, adding these players should help the Pirates in 2024, especially getting Keller and Bednar signed.