Top 5 Pirates Prospects: Bradenton Marauders

3-7-23 By Craig W. Toth (aka @BucsBasement on Twitter) At this point in the off-season, plotting out the Minor League assignments across the Pirates Farm System is a little bit of a guessing game; but, a very fun one if you are into prospects. In fact I enjoy it so much that I had BenContinue reading “Top 5 Pirates Prospects: Bradenton Marauders”

Five Pirates Thoughts at Five – Spring Update Edition

I don’t usually do these with a theme, but as we’re just about smack dab in the middle of this thing, it feels like a good time to focus on where we are.

Chances are Earned, Not Given

Pirates have moved to a new stage of this effort, and the time for that sort of thinking is largely over. From here on out, it’ll be more about who is pushing, who has displayed an ability to improve an area of concern, maybe even how final the counter move will be play a factor.

Through The Prospect Porthole: Expectations For Endy

3-2-23 By Craig W. Toth (aka @BucsBasement on Twitter) Mention Endy Rodriguez in a room full of Pirates Fans, and I can almost guarantee you that the majority would join together in mass to scream about how he should start behind the plate in the Majors; in spite of the fact that most have probablyContinue reading “Through The Prospect Porthole: Expectations For Endy”

Top 5 Pirates Prospects: Spring Training Impact

2-28-23 By Craig W. Toth (aka @BucsBasement on Twitter) Many times, when a prospect enters Spring Training there is little to no chance that they will come north with the Big League Club; often taking the detour along I-70 West, on their way to Indianapolis. In some cases this decision is made before anyone evenContinue reading “Top 5 Pirates Prospects: Spring Training Impact”

Five Pirates Thoughts at Five

Well, by the time you read this the Pirates will have played two games, but as I sit down to write it, I’ve got the knowledge that comes with one. In other words, don’t expect a pitch by pitch examination of the roster and what it’s done so far.

The Pirates Spring Baseball Schedule Begins Tomorrow – Rinse & Repeat, Right?

I keep hearing this is all the same, nothing’s changed. Thing is, to some degree, there is truth in that, but sometimes it actually makes sense. Give me a chance to show you what I mean.