Richard Rodriguez, RP
You cannot talk about trade chips without mentioned relief pitchers. Every year, you see about five relief pitchers pop up as possible trade chips for contending teams. Richard Rodriguez could be included in that group this year. The 31-year-old is starting his fourth full major league season as a reliever in the Pirates organization.
In 2020, Rodriguez showed signs of success in the shortened season. Over 24 games, Rodriguez had an amazing .857 WHIP which, incredibly, he has shrunk in the 2021 season. Currently, Rodriguez sits at a .368 WHIP over 18 appearances and 19 innings.
Rodriguez has incredible control, as well, which will be noticed by contending teams seeking bullpen help. Thus far, Rodriguez has struck out 15 batters and only walked one. Last year, amazingly, Rodriguez struck out 34 batters while only walking five in 23 ⅓ innings pitched. Rodriguez is currently playing on a one-year, $1.7 million contract while not being free agent eligible until 2024.
For the Pittsburgh Pirates, Rodriguez may be the most intriguing and rewarding trade chip as they enter their third decade of rebuilding.