It’s easy to overlook the work that JT Brubaker has done since making his major league debut back in 2020. If anything, he’s been consistent, as he is one of 76 pitchers since 2020 to throw at least 300 innings, leading the Pirates in that span as well.
While he hasn’t posted the most eye popping of numbers, he’s posted some fairly strong metrics as well – 3.96 xFIP, 23.3 K%, and 11.8 SwStr%.
Even more impressive, is that he’s in camp and gearing up for what he’s hoping will be his best season yet, as he tries to incorporate his changeup more than previous seasons, which would give a different look to hitters.
The Pirates are set to have numerous of their pitching prospects set to begin the season in Indianapolis this year. Even though they look like the obvious intention is to be more competitive this year, it is hard to see a scenario where they are going to be held back once they are deemed ‘ready’.
So, where would that leave Brubaker? As the Pirates start to bring up some of the prospects, it would be nice to have some reliable arms still around that you know what you are going to get.
Then again, you are going to have to make room for the prospects, which could impact Brubaker. Vince Velasquez and Rich Hill were brought in on one year deals, so they could be the easy answer to make space.
The Pirates could take advantage of Brubaker about to enter arbitration, along with the fact he’s proven to be a reliable back-end of the rotation starter, and trade him while his value is high, especially if he plays well this season.
Or they can hang on to him, and have him round out a rotation that will have several young pitchers in it as they find their footing at the Major League level.
Regardless, Brubaker can end up being a very valuable piece for the organization, whether it be with the Pirates, or as a trade piece.
Pirates Prospects Daily
By Tim Williams
**Pirates DVR: Braeden Ogle Returns, Caleb Smith, Blake Cederlind Live BP
**Termarr Johnson Returns to Minor League Camp The first cut of the spring was brought on by a minor injury
**Pirates Discussion: Build Up For The Season
**Pirates Prospects Daily: Mitch Keller Gets Nod First Spring Game… Opening Day? In case you missed it from yesterday, Mitch Keller will be starting the spring opener…today.
Song of the Day
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xuIAcZ_BS64
TODAY’S LINEUP
Lineups for Spring Training will be posted at the bottom of this article each day. Today’s scheduled pitchers are listed at the bottom. Game is at 1:05 PM
Good morning.
We play baseball today!!!!! pic.twitter.com/Zbz60wGgQ6
— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) February 25, 2023
Pitchers following Keller: Roansy Contreras, David Bednar, Jarlin Garcia, Chase De Jong, Duane Underwood Jr., Daniel Zamora and Rob Zastryzny.
