Pittsburgh Pirates Notebook: Bucs Confirm Andrew McCutchen Not Untouchable
By Matt Shetler
An interesting tidbit came across today from ESPN’s Keith Law (need to ne an ESPN Insider to read entire article) concerning Pirates center fielder Andrew McCutchen. Knowing that the Bucs have yet to come to a contract extension with McCutchen, Law reports that the Pirates would listen to offers on Cutch.
Don’t panic and jump off the bandwagon just yet. He also reports that the Pirates would have to be absolutely blown away to even think about dealing McCutchen.. That’s just smart though. If someone offered them a ridiculous amount for him (and it would have to be a huge return), they would be foolish not to pull the trigger on a deal.
The main negative news coming out of this situation if that the two sides are still far apart on an extension. If Justin Upton’s six-year, $51.25MM contract which he signed in 2010 is any sort of bench mark, just give him the money already.
Other Notes
– The Bucs released Xavier Paul who cleared waivers. He wasn’t going to make the club and couldn’t be sent to the minors, so this was the only option remaining.
–MLBTR reports that the Bucs have interest in Colorado right-hander Aaron Cook. Cook has had success in the past, mostly under Clint Hurdle and given the price, could be worth taking a shot on since the Bucs need starting pitching. It appears the Bucs are slowly turning into Colorado East.
– No real news to report on Derrick Lee yet, although the club offered him arbitration, which he will likely decline.
– The Bucs signed six players to minor league deals including Jake Fox, Brandon Boggs, and Shairon Martis, who all have big league experience. Fox is a guy that’s always intrigued me. He has some pop and can play several positions, including catch. He’s had some outstanding minor league power seasons that hasn’t quite translated into big league power just yet. He’s also the reigning “Mr. March.” He led the majors in spring training homers in 2011.
I will be back next week with hopefully some new news to report.
Follow City of Champions Sports on Twitter