MLB · 1 year ago

5 Players the Pirates Will Target at the MLB Trade Deadline

Sportsgrid Staff

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Tyler Anderson
Tyler Anderson, currently signed with the Los Angeles Angels through the 2024 season, is having another standout year with a sub-3.00 ERA, reminiscent of his impressive 2022 season with the Dodgers. Despite a drop in fastball velocity below 90 MPH, Anderson is defying expectations and delivering his best performance in years.

Adding Anderson to the Pirates' rotation could be a strategic move, providing stability and depth for the remainder of the season and through 2025. His surprising success makes him an intriguing option for the Pirates, who could benefit from his experience and skill.

For MLB bettors, Anderson's addition to the Pirates' roster could significantly impact betting odds. His proven ability to perform under pressure and deliver consistent results makes him a key player to watch, offering valuable opportunities for those looking to leverage favorable betting lines.
Taylor Ward
Taylor Ward, under team control through the 2026 season, could benefit greatly from a change of scenery to return to his stellar 2022 form. Despite his subpar performance at the plate so far in 2024, Ward's underlying metrics suggest he's been one of the unluckiest hitters in baseball.

Ward’s current .226/.309/.396 slash line doesn't reflect his actual hitting prowess. With a 13.6% barrel rate, ranking 20th among qualified hitters, he is one of only three in this group without a wRC+ above 100 (he’s at 98). Additionally, he ranks as the sixth unluckiest hitter in baseball by xSLG, indicating he's due for positive regression as the season progresses.

From 2021 to 2023, Ward posted a 121 wRC+ and accumulated 6.0 fWAR in just under 300 games, demonstrating his capability as a high-impact player. Given his potential for a bounce-back and control until 2027, Ward would be an excellent addition to the Pirates' outfield, providing a significant upgrade.

For MLB bettors, Ward's move to a new team could signal a resurgence, making him a player to watch closely. His potential improvement could positively influence betting odds, offering value to those looking for strategic opportunities.
Lane Thomas
If the Pittsburgh Pirates aim to boost their power output, Lane Thomas could be an ideal target. Thomas smashed 28 homers in 2023, contributing to a solid 3.1 fWAR.

Although Thomas has cooled off since his impressive 2023 season and is only under team control for one more season after 2024, he remains a valuable asset. This season, he has spent time on the IL and has hit only 8 homers in 331 plate appearances, making his asking price lower than it was last year.

According to a report from Jim Bowden, Thomas is also on the Pirates’ radar. The Nationals might be looking to move on from him, as he approaches free agency and their young outfield prospects start to emerge.

For MLB bettors, Thomas's potential trade to the Pirates could significantly impact betting odds. His power-hitting ability and fresh start could spark a resurgence, making him a key player to watch and a strategic choice for those looking to leverage favorable betting lines.
Andrew Heaney
Andrew Heaney could be a budget-friendly option for the Pirates, as he becomes a free agent after this season. Heaney has posted a 3.77 ERA so far this year and has achieved a higher fWAR total than in any full season since 2018.

Heaney's versatility makes him a valuable asset for the Pirates down the stretch and potentially in the postseason. This left-handed pitcher can deliver crucial innings, either out of the bullpen or as a multi-inning opener, providing stability and depth to the pitching staff.

For MLB bettors, Heaney's potential impact on the Pirates can influence betting odds, especially if they make a playoff push. His performance could boost the team's chances, making him a strategic player to watch for those seeking to capitalize on favorable betting lines.
Trevor Rogers
Trevor Rogers has struggled to recapture his stellar 2021 form, where he posted a 2.64 ERA and 4.3 fWAR. Since then, his combined performance over subsequent seasons has resulted in a 4.92 ERA across 230.1 innings, yielding just 1.8 fWAR. Rogers spent a significant portion of last season on the injured list and has yet to make a strong comeback.

For MLB bettors, Rogers' potential trade could be a high-risk, high-reward opportunity. If he can return to his 2021 performance levels, he could provide significant value to the Pirates and impact their betting odds favorably. Keeping an eye on Rogers’ recovery and performance could offer strategic insights for bettors looking to capitalize on his potential resurgence.
Tyler Anderson
Tyler Anderson, currently signed with the Los Angeles Angels through the 2024 season, is having another standout year with a sub-3.00 ERA, reminiscent of his impressive 2022 season with the Dodgers. Despite a drop in fastball velocity below 90 MPH, Anderson is defying expectations and delivering his best performance in years.

Adding Anderson to the Pirates' rotation could be a strategic move, providing stability and depth for the remainder of the season and through 2025. His surprising success makes him an intriguing option for the Pirates, who could benefit from his experience and skill.

For MLB bettors, Anderson's addition to the Pirates' roster could significantly impact betting odds. His proven ability to perform under pressure and deliver consistent results makes him a key player to watch, offering valuable opportunities for those looking to leverage favorable betting lines.
Taylor Ward
Taylor Ward, under team control through the 2026 season, could benefit greatly from a change of scenery to return to his stellar 2022 form. Despite his subpar performance at the plate so far in 2024, Ward's underlying metrics suggest he's been one of the unluckiest hitters in baseball.

Ward’s current .226/.309/.396 slash line doesn't reflect his actual hitting prowess. With a 13.6% barrel rate, ranking 20th among qualified hitters, he is one of only three in this group without a wRC+ above 100 (he’s at 98). Additionally, he ranks as the sixth unluckiest hitter in baseball by xSLG, indicating he's due for positive regression as the season progresses.

From 2021 to 2023, Ward posted a 121 wRC+ and accumulated 6.0 fWAR in just under 300 games, demonstrating his capability as a high-impact player. Given his potential for a bounce-back and control until 2027, Ward would be an excellent addition to the Pirates' outfield, providing a significant upgrade.

For MLB bettors, Ward's move to a new team could signal a resurgence, making him a player to watch closely. His potential improvement could positively influence betting odds, offering value to those looking for strategic opportunities.

5 Players the Pirates Will Target at the MLB Trade Deadline

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