According to Rob Biertempel on Twitter (via MLBTR), the Indians and Pirates have discussed the particulars of a trade for Shin-Soo Choo. Biertempel speculates that the Pirates would have to part with Starling Marte to make the trade happen.
Choo has one year of team control left in 2013 before heading to free agency as a Scott Boras client. The 30 year-old Choo has a .295/.382/.489 triple slash line this year with 12 HR’s. Choo has the ability to draw a walk and get on base, which is still a sore point even in the resurgent Pirate offense of June/July. Choo makes $4.9M in 2012 and can expect to receive probably $7.5-$8M in 2013.
Not only would the Pirates get a non-rental, but they would also receive a potential comp pick should they offer arbitration after 2013 and Choo turns it down.
