Derek Shelton made little changes since he replaced Clint Hurdle as Pittsburgh’s manager. The team finished in the last place in the NL Central division. However, he hopes the Pirates roster changes can help the team improve its performance this season.
Shelton went on the field to check the catchers and pitchers who reported for spring training. He wants to have eyes on the players, instead of relying on game simulations or videos. His arrival marked the significant leadership overhaul by the team, which parted ways with Hurdle, president Frank Coonelly, and GM Neal Huntington.
The Pirates’ season was marred with injuries to the starting lineup. Also, the team suffered from chemistry problems in the clubhouse. All-Star Felipe Vazquez was arrested in September after he had an improper sexual relationship with a minor. Those were some of the issues the team faced last season.
Pirates Roster Changes
Based on sports news reports, team owner Bob Nutting hired Ben Cherington and Travis Williams as GM and president, respectively. However, the team made little changes to its roster. One significant move it made was trading away Starling Marte to Arizona for two 19-year-old prospects.
Cherington told a Pay Per Head Bookie Blog that there’s excitement for the players they currently have. Management’s job is to ensure they grow and improve their game. One rookie to watch out for is Ke’Bryan Hayes. He had ten home runs in 110 games playing for Triple-A Indianapolis in the minors.
According to bookie software reports, Pittsburgh will launch alternate away uniforms in the upcoming season. However, most of the players wearing them will be the ones who contributed to the team’s worst finish in years.
The Pirates need someone to replace Marte. Also, they need a catcher after declining Elias Diaz’s option. The team invited pitchers Robbie Erlin and Derek Holland to the training camp as the team is looking for someone to replace Jameson Taillon, who’s recovering from right arm surgery.