Pittsburgh Pirates: Nick Burdi continues star crossed career
By David Hill
There is no denying the talent possessed by former Pittsburgh Pirates reliever Nick Burdi. He just cannot stay on the mound.
Nick Burdi had been a rarity during his time in the minors. He was considered a top pitching prospect despite being a reliever, something that few players are able to do. However, injuries hampered his development with the Twins, leading to his being acquired by the Pittsburgh Pirates during the Rule V Draft as they sent $500,000 in international signing bonus money to the Phillies.
After three more injury plagued seasons, Burdi’s time in Pittsburgh may have come to an end. Not only has he undergone a second Tommy John surgery, but he has been designated for assignment.
Due to his continued injury woes, it is not expected that Burdi will be recovered from the procedure for 16 to 18 months. He had previously undergone Tommy John surgery in 2017, and then had surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome in 2019.
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Those surgeries have kept Burdi from establishing himself in the majors. Once considered a future closer, he has just 12.1 major league innings under his belt. In that time, he has posted a 9.49 ERA and a 1.865 WHiP, issuing seven walks. However, he also showed flashes of dominance, striking out 23 batters.
In theory, this is not the end of Burdi’s time in Pittsburgh. He will likely pass through waivers without being claimed, making him a free agent. At that point, the Pirates could sign him to a minor league contract, helping him through the rehab process and keeping him in the organization for when he is ready to return.
It is, however, another hurdle that he must overcome as he attempts to make good on his promise. His high octane fastball and wipeout slider are the perfect weapons for him to dominate in the ninth inning. But he has to stay healthy, which he has been unable to do thus far.
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Nick Burdi has undergone yet another Tommy John surgery and has been designated for assignment. his star crossed career continues onward.