The Pittsburgh Pirates are in a rebuilding phase. Ever since their star, Andrew McCutchen, left the team after the 2017 season, things haven’t been looking good in the Steel City. The Pirates last made the postseason in 2015.
They finished 62-100 in 2022, marking the fourth straight year the team has failed to reach the equivalent of 70 wins. They finished 19-41 in the COVID-shortened 2020 season.
Back-to-back losing seasons can be an incredibly demoralizing experience for the city, the fans and, of course, the players. There are, however, some downsides that can be gleaned from poor performance if you look closely enough.
Since the Pittsburgh Pirates had one of the worst records in MLB last year, they received the most entries in the draft lottery last December, along with the Washington Nationals and Oakland Athletics.
The first MLB draft lottery was held last year. The lowest scoring teams have their numbers written on ping-pong balls and drawn at random. After December’s sweepstakes in San Diego, the Pittsburgh Pirates were awarded their second first-round pick in three seasons.
“Raul Ibanez releases picks six to first in 2022 MLB draft lottery, Pirates and Nationals remain first picks, Pirates win first lottery in history” – @ Mr Mathew CFB
The Pittsburgh Pirates had some of the worst pitching in the league last season. Out of 30 teams, they ranked 25th in ERA, 28th in fewest runs allowed and 26th in WHIP. Needless to say, pitching should be a priority for the Pirates heading into June’s draft.
University of Tennessee pitcher Chase Dollander seems to fit the bill. Last season, Dollander compiled a 10-0 record, compiling an ERA of just 2.39 in 79 innings. Although he has been compared to New York Yankees star Gerrit Cole, Dollander is only 21 years old and likely won’t be MLB ready for at least a few years.
“10 days until Tennessee baseball. Reigning SEC Pitcher of the Year and First Team All-American Chase Dollander went 𝟭𝟬-0 last year.” – @ Callum
The Pittsburgh Pirates are looking for a player to base their rebuild around
Although the Pittsburgh Pirates will see McCutchen return for his farewell season, the 36-year-old will be a shell of what he once was for this team. Accordingly, the Pirates must put their eggs in the basket of the future.
Rich Hill is the oldest player in baseball and also tops the Pirates rotation this year. In order to be competitive, the Pirates need a rebuild, and a player like Dollander will make that easier.
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