After the news today that the Pittsburgh Pirates agreed to a three-year deal with Francisco Liriano, there were rumors saying that they could start focusing on Edinson Volquez, and that they would turn to the bullpen. Rob Biertempfel had two tweets tonight, saying that they aren’t likely to seek another starting pitcher, and will focus on the bullpen. He also had an interesting update on what kind of offer they could make for a reliever.
Source: Once Liriano deal is finalized, #Pirates not likely to seek another SP, will turn attention toward bullpen.
— RobBiertempfel (@RobBiertempfel) December 10, 2014
Source: #Pirates are willing to make multi-year offer for certain relievers, if it's right guy-right deal situation
— RobBiertempfel (@RobBiertempfel) December 10, 2014
Earlier today, Biertempfel said that they were interested in Pat Neshek, while Jon Morosi said they were looking for lefty relievers in a trade.
As for the “multi-year offer” comment, I could see that happening to a certain extent. The Pirates don’t pay for relief pitching. They typically find value pieces, and that has worked well for them. At the same time, they gave out a multi-year offer to Jason Grilli. He gave them a discount for that offer, and that was before anyone really trusted him as a closer. I’d imagine “right guy-right deal” is something similar, where the Pirates would do a two-year deal at a low cost. I’d be shocked if they go for some of the traditional prices that are paid in free agency.
