Roster moves

The Pirates have started their off season moves. They began with a little 40-man roster clean up. They dropped Brandon Moss, Jeff Clement, Justin Thomas, Steven Jackson, and Sean Gallagher. They also put all their 60-Day DL guys back on the 40-man: Ohledorf, Pearce, and Ascanio. Thus, we have a net gain of 2. The Pirates need more room than that to protect their prospects. It also appears that Clement will be exposed to the Rule 5 Draft. I think the Pirates are going to go with Pearce, and then maybe they are hoping that Clement will get passed over because his injuries. If he is not taken, then Clement will remain under Pirate control, but the others are all minor league free agents. Although, I read a report today Thomas has already re-signed as a minor leaguer.

The Pirates have also gone after several free agents. Adrean Beltre is supposed to be one of them, but I hope the Pirates don't get him. I think the Pirates are going to be okay with out him. Supposedly the Pirates expected to sign Hiroki Kuroda. This would probably add something to the Pirate pitching staff even if it is just new blood. He is not the answer by any means, but if it helps keep Charlie Morton off the team, then I am okay with it. I have also learned that the Pirate management often signs guys they think they can deal in trades. So, if they sign him, I will be a believer.