The Pittsburgh Pirates have recalled outfielder Jaff Decker, and have optioned Brent Morel to Triple-A. The set of moves was expected, as we heard late last night that Decker was heading to Pittsburgh.
The Pirates needed an extra outfielder with the minor injuries to Starling Marte and Andrew McCutchen. McCutchen is in the lineup tonight, although Marte is out, being replaced by Jose Tabata in left field. Travis Snider is also back in the lineup, after missing the last two games due to his suspension.
Tim started Pirates Prospects in 2009 from his home in Virginia, which was 40 minutes from where Pedro Alvarez made his pro debut in Lynchburg. That year, the Lynchburg Hillcats won the Carolina League championship, and Pirates Prospects was born from Tim's reporting along the way. The site has grown over the years to include many more writers, and Tim has gone on to become a credentialed MLB reporter, producing Pirates Prospects each year, and will publish his 11th Prospect Guide this offseason. He has also served as the Pittsburgh Pirates correspondent for Baseball America since 2019. Behind the scenes, Tim is an avid music lover, and most of the money he gets paid to run this site goes to vinyl records.
Can someone can explain to me why we bring up Decker, when he is hitting what – .230?? Chris Dickerson is the kind of veteran that could actually help this team – he is a competent outfielder – can play all 3 spots – he has experience, can run, and can get very streaky hot. He had stretches last year when he was a real solid contributor to the Orioles.
It is because Dickerson isn’t on the 40 man and and is a veteran . Which wouldn’t be a problem if he was needed long term and wouldn’t have to be sent down again. To be sent down again he would have to clear waivers. Since this move is just for a few days while marte gets healthy, they made the “reversible” move… bringing up the guy Decker who can be sent back down without any problems.