A better sign for the future (17-38)

The Pirates lost after a 2 hit five inning performance by Malholm. He struggled in the 6th and would give up four runs, which was more than enough to sink the Pirates. McCutchen hit another homer, but it just made it a four to two loss.

The more important news is the signing of Mexican 16 year old right handed fireballer, Luis Heredia. And I am going to go out on a limb and say that this is a better sign for the long term health of the franchise than the great draft we just had. In previous Front Office administrations, signing Latin American or International players at all was rare. No real prospects came through the system. But, now the current managment has clearly put a priority on it. Luis Heredia is just the most recent proof. Take a look at Dominican Facility recently built, or the back to back championships of the VSL Pirates, or even the current roster of the GCL Pirates.

Now it is true that we lost out on a high profile signing in the off season, but that kind of stuff happens from time to time. Agents don't give you a chance to match, and sometimes players don't want to play for the Pirates. However, more signings that are big name like Heredia will help change players minds. Agents too probably as they see the Pirates are serious about shelling out money.

Not only that, but note how many new international markets have been opened up by the Pirates lately. A few years ago they signed a pitcher from Japan who pitched in Pittsburgh. They have since signed players from India, China, and Austrilia all firsts for the Pirates. This not only shows we are scouting in far away places, but can lead to new sources of revenue for the Pirates as far as fans and selling merchandise.

The Pirates are committed to international development despite the reputation we currently have. And this is more important to a franchise than even the drafts. At least as far as long term health. The Draft is super important for the Pirates now because they have the chance to change the face of their franchise every year mainly because they are drafting at or near the top. This usually means you get one sure fire prospect and probably another that is decent at the top of the second round. Our recent over-the-slot approach has garnered us more than normal, but a lot of this will change if the Pirates start winning. Back of the first round draft picks are not sure fire prospects and not franchise changing. This means that the best way for winning teams to keep on top is through the International Free Agent pool. Signing young talent like Heredia will be of the utmost importance when the Pirates starting making their eventual runs at the World Series. Thus, doing well now is a far more encouraging sign than even our recent amazing draft.