Offseason Moves (thus far)

I previously mentioned my lack of enthusiasm for the Pirates this offseason. They have made very few moves of any significance (I'm not including Patel and Singh as significant, even though they are awesome). So far, free agents Jason Michaels and Chris Gomez have signed with new teams. Despite the fact that Michaels had a number of clutch hits, neither of these are loses. Doug Mientkiewicz would be nice to have back too, but I wouldn't blame him for wanting to play for a more successful team. The Pirates have signed free agent infielder Ramon Vasquez to a 2 year deal, which is fine as long as he's only a utility player. He is certainly a notch or two above Gomez, talent-wise. Vasquez also provides a little insurance in case the team finds a buyer for Jack Wilson some day. You never know. Also, today the Pirates signed Craig Monroe to a minor league deal. Only a couple of years ago he was a fairly impressive youngish slugger for the Tigers. And I believe Dave Littlefield was trying to have him included in a potential Jack Wilson deal that fell through. Monroe has of course fallen on harder times since then, but on a minor league contract, I like him. Maybe he can regain his form from a few years back. I doubt it, but it's worth the miniscule risk here.

Also this offseason, the Pirates have signed catcher Ryan Doumit to a multi year contract and failed to ink centerfielder Nate McLouth to a similar deal. Pitcher Paul Maholm may also be approached about an deal. We shall see.

I doubt any more free agents will be brought in. At least none of much interest. It would be nice if the team is able to bring in a Jon Garland type on a 1 year deal to try to add some competition to the rotation. Garland could be the Kyle Lohse of this year (though with a little less talent), accepting less money than he expected with the hopes of proving that he's worth so much more.