Pirates pounce for Pitcher Quintana

While the new MLB season may still be some way off, already we are seeing signs that it could make for some interesting viewing if events in the off-season translate accordingly.

Latest news indicates that the Pittsburgh Pirates have reached an agreement to bring in veteran left-sided pitcher Jose Quintana in what can be considered somewhat of an eye-opener.

The deal is understood to be for one year and worth $2 million, though the 32-year-old will be aware that there are other options in front of him.

 

Competition for places

Boasting a roster of 40 picks, the Pirates have a number of options. Mitch Keller, Bryse Wilson, Wil Crowe, Max Kranick, JT Brubaker, Dillon Peters, Steven Brault and Chad Kuhl are all potential choices, though there is uncertainty about some of these.

Both Brault and Kuhl are arbitration-eligible, with both of them to be non-tendered, while Keller went 5-11 last season with a 6.17 ERA.

While Quintana will add a substantial amount of experience, there is an argument over his value and whether he can still perform at the highest level.

 

Quintana an Injury risk?

Last season while playing for the Angels, who he signed a $8 million one-year deal with, Quintana sustained a left shoulder injury in August which kept him out for a month.

It remains to be seen exactly whether he is back to his best, however, the Pirates it seems have finally got their man after trying to sign him after the 2016 season. At the time, Quintana was an all-star with the White Sox. Instead he went to the Cubs who, in order to secure his signature, gave up a package of four minor leaguers that included right-hander Dylan Cease.

The Pirates may decide to use Quintana sparingly, in a tactic that could give more time to youngsters Miguel Yazure and Roansy Contreras.