Pittsburgh Pirates 2023 Trade Deadline Recap

S. Samek

Let’s take a look at the trade deadline moves made by the Pittsburgh Pirates. First off let’s establish that they were for sure sellers. Though they did also keep a few solid pieces like David Bednar, Mitch Keller, Bryan Reynolds and Andrew McCutchen. So, it doesn’t scream full rebuild, but nothing about the trades said buyer.

The first trade they made was Carlos Santana to the Brewers for a shortstop prospect. While Santana was mostly a rental, why couldn’t they have gotten something other than yet another shortstop prospect.

Rich Hill and Ji-Man Choi were traded to San Diego for a left-handed pitcher, a first Baseman and an outfielder. Honestly this wasn’t the worst they could have done. The Pitcher become the 17th best Pirates prospect and they get a first baseman to possibly replace Santana. All for a couple of veteran rental player.

Austin Hedges was traded to Texas for bonus money in the international pool. Hedges is not known for his bat and now with two top catching prospects in the majors he was extra. So, getting anything for him can be seen as a win.

Then Rodolfo Castro was traded for a relief pitcher to the Phillies. Castro never seemed to be an everyday player and is in Triple A currently. The pitcher they got in return also seems to be a Triple A currently and doesn’t seem to be doing so well. I feel like this won’t really impact either team too much.

Overall, I think the trades make sense. Why not get some value for players that aren’t going to be in long term plans.