It seems that pursuing players who are considering retirement is the new market inefficiency. The Pittsburgh Pirates checked on Lance Berkman, according to Travis Sawchik, but were told that he’s leaning toward retirement.
Pirates made a call on Lance Berkman but agent says he's leaning toward retirement
— Travis Sawchik (@Travis_Sawchik) November 21, 2013
Berkman is at the end of his career, and has been on a decline. He had a .700 OPS last year at the age of 37, and playing in Texas. He missed most of the previous year with an injury. I’m guessing the Pirates would have been looking at him for first base, although I feel there are much better options out there than a 38 year old Berkman.