Three Players Pirates Should Trade After Managerial Change
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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With the firing of manager Derek Shelton, it has been made clear that the Pittsburgh Pirates organization is in disarray, and with a 12-26 record, the season may very well already be a wash.
If that is the case, the Pirates should begin putting out feelers and seeing if teams are interested in making early-season trades. Here are three players Pittsburgh should trade.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 27: Isiah Kiner-Falefa #7 of the Pittsburgh Pirates in action against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on April 27, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 27: Isiah Kiner-Falefa #7 of the Pittsburgh Pirates in action against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on April 27, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Utility
Kiner-Falefa is no stranger to a trade, as he's been moved three times, including twice in 36 hours in the 2022 offseason. His versatility makes him a viable trade candidate.
He's a career .263 hitter, including .280 in 109 at-bats so far this season with the Pirates. He's currently on the 10-day injured list with a right hamstring strain and it is unclear when he will return to action.
Several teams, including the Cubs, Yankees, Twins and Brewers, could use a utility man/defensive replacement for late-game situations. Kiner-Falefa, a former Gold Glove winner, fits the bill.
Andrew Heaney, Starting Pitcher
Heaney has been the most frequently talked about trade piece from Pittsburgh and it is more and more likely that he will indeed be moved.
He is 2-3 with a 3.18 ERA and 34 strikeouts in 39 2/3 innings pitched and seven starts this season. He's allowed eight runs over his last two starts, causing his ERA to climb above three for the first time all season.
If he can get back on track and make himself a coveted trade target, the Yankees, Red Sox, Mariners and Guardians could use starting pitching help and should make Pittsburgh an offer for Heaney.
David Bednar, Closer
Bednar has struggled in a major way over the last two seasons, and a change of scenery may be what he needs to get his career back on track.
He was optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis less than a week into the season and since being promoted back to the major leagues, he's done solid work. Bednar has allowed just two runs and struck out five batters in his last five appearances.
Most teams could always use bullpen help, but the Cubs, Red Sox, Rangers and Phillies are in the bottom 13 of Wins Above Average among relief pitchers.
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