Pittsburgh Review

As the Pittsburgh Pirates prepare for the final stretch of the season, several key questions about the team's future have emerged. Alex Stumpf addresses these in his latest Pirates Beat newsletter.

A reader asked what the team should do if Henry Davis returns and performs well to close out the year, given that Endy Rodríguez, Joey Bart, and Davis could all be catchers next year. Stumpf suggests letting things take their course for now. He notes Bart's strong performance since joining the team and highlights Rodríguez's and Davis's potential despite their current low trade values. Stumpf believes a decision will be clearer after seeing them compete in Bradenton, Florida next year.

Another reader inquired whether Bubba Chandler might get a spot start like Roansy Contreras did in 2021 or if Billy Cook or Nick Yorke might be called up before season's end. Stumpf doubts Chandler will make it to the majors this season due to roster constraints but sees a September call-up for Yorke as plausible given his Rule 5 Draft eligibility. Braxton Ashcraft’s potential return from injury could also see him make an appearance if healthy.

Regarding who should start at shortstop on opening day 2025 between Oneil Cruz and Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Stumpf mentions General Manager Ben Cherington's support for Cruz remaining at shortstop. However, he acknowledges Kiner-Falefa’s defensive prowess and suggests moving Cruz to center field could address multiple needs for the team.

Stumpf concludes by noting Cruz's efforts to improve defensively at shortstop but points out his inconsistency despite some stretches of error-free play.