Pittsburgh Pirates need to sign top of rotation starter this offseason

The Pittsburgh Pirates will have some financial flexibility this offseason. They need to use that money on a top of the rotation arm.

The Pittsburgh Pirates hopes for 2020 have already taken a hit. Jameson Taillon, the oft injured but extremely talented ace of the rotation, will be lost for next season as he underwent Tommy John surgery for the second time. it is a tough blow for a team that had such high hopes heading into this season, only to see them fall apart in the second half.

This leaves the Pirates with a relatively unsettled rotation. Chris Archer has been a solid pitcher over his career, showing flashes of being a top of the rotation starter, but has been a below average pitcher over each of the past two seasons. Top prospect Mitch Keller should be ready for the rotation next season. Aside from that duo, the Pirates would have a rotation comprising of some less than appealing options.

Yet, that does not have to be the case. After this season, Pittsburgh could have some money to spend. The contracts of Francisco Cervelli, Melky Cabrera, Lonnie Chisenhall, and Francisco Liriano will come off the books, saving the Pirates approximately $16 million. That number increases should the Pirates decide to bid farewell to Keone Kela, as his own $4 million deal would no longer become an obligation.

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With that money off the books, and a solid young core close to major league ready, this is the perfect chance for the Pirates to make a splash. While that type of move is unheard of in the Bob Nutting Era, the Pirates have the perfect opportunity to add a top of the rotation arm without materially affecting their bottom line.

This offseason has plenty of arms that the Pirates could consider. While Gerrit Cole and Madison Bumgarner would likely be out of their price range, a pitcher like Zack Wheeler could make a difference. Rick Porcello may not be an ace, but after a rough 2019, he could come at a discount.

This offseason will be an interesting litmus test for Pittsburgh. If the Pirates ownership is serious about contending, they will have the financial resources to make a move. Should they forgo the opportunity to add a viable top of the rotation arm, and instead opt for a plethora of low cost placeholders, then that would speak volumes.

The Pittsburgh Pirates will have the finances to add a top of the rotation arm this offseason. It is the route they need to take if they are serious about contending.