Saxboy Billy makes his podcast debut on Bucco Bantr.

Saxboy opens up about his lifelong love for the Pirates, how his passion for the franchise became a lifeline during his personal battles with alcoholism, and how embracing fandom ultimately helped him turn his life around. We discuss his journey from darkness to light, the role his online community played in his recovery, and the impact of his work on those who are going through similar struggles.

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We are joined by Noah Hiles on our regularly scheduled offseason programming to recap his experience at the MLB Winter Meetings in Dallas. 

From the first Pirates free agency signing to the aggressive trade with Cleveland, we share our thoughts on the moves made by the organization over the past week.

For more in depth analysis on the Jones/Keller rumors or the big takeaways from this year's Winter Meetings, see Noah's published articles by following the links below. 

https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/pirates/2024/12/11/rumors-winter-meetings-mitch-keller-jack-suwinski-bullpen-coach/stories/202412100091

https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/pirates/2024/12/12/mlb-winter-meetings-nutting-cherington-keller-jones-trade-mccutchen/stories/202412120038

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This week, we recap every MLB Winter Meetings including free agent signings, trade, rumors, and much more.

The Pirates upgraded their offense by trading for Blue Jays 1B Spencer Horwitz. In order to acquire Horwitz, they dealt from a position of depth. We give our thoughts and analysis on the trade package.

Additionally, the Pirates signed a reliever - RHP Elvis Alvarado. We breakdown his repertoire and potential future impact on this bullpen.

Lastly, the Winter Meetings concluded with the MLB Draft Lottery and the Rule 5 Draft. The Pirates secured the 6th overall pick in the 2025 Draft and we bring up some early names to watch. For the Rule 5 Draft, the Pirates added 5 players and lost 3 players through the minor league phase, while holding onto Yean, Siani, and Alfonzo. Join us as we breakdown the minor leaguers added through today’s draft.

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This week, we preview the Winter Meetings and break down what to expect each day in Dallas.

A few signings and rumors around the NL Central are discussed along with other offseason moves.

Lastly, we discuss some last minute trade options with the recent signing of Tyler O'Neill, a highly coveted coveted corner outfielder. The Pirates need to improve their offense going into 2025 and we propose 4 separate candidates that may be realistic prior to the Winter Meetings.

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This week, we clear the air on our comments related to the Dodgers spending spree from the previous episode and discuss another front office move.

We finish up our position grades with the bullpen with some in depth analysis from the 2024 season.

Lastly, we discuss the moves around the NL Central and share some rumors that are circulating the social media landscape.

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There were a few moves around the NL Central during the holiday week. Noah Hiles joins us to discuss these moves, amongst other topics.

John Baker was promoted to oversee the Performance side of the organization, a role similar to what he held in Chicago previously. As a result, the Pirates are in search for a new Farm Director.

Lastly, we discuss the ramifications of the non-tender deadline and potential rumors to upgrade the offense.

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The non-tender deadline has passed and the Pirates made some necessary moves. Bryan De La Cruz, Connor Joe, and Hunter Stratton were all non-tendered. We discuss why these moves were necessary and how this could be the beginning of a unique offseason for the Buccos.

The bullpen is already being addressed with the most recent trade for Guardians RHP Peter Strzelecki. The Pirates send cash considerations for the 30 year old bullpen arm. We discuss the move and other transactions around the NL Central.

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This week, we are joined by Anthony Murphy of Bucs on Deck, DK Sports, and Baseball America to discuss all things Arizona Fall League and Pirates prospects.

Join us as we dive deep into the 2024 draft class, top prospects, and what to expect dahn on the farm in 2025. 

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The Pirates have a new hitting coach. Noah Hiles joins us to discuss the recent coaching hires and how they'll impact this organization going forward.

We banter on the Paul Skenes rookie card and what trade would get the deal done for us if we happened to obtain the lucky treasure.

Lastly, we discuss the final week of the Arizona Fall League as the Scottsdale Scorpions make the playoffs.

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The Pirates have named their new hitting coach. Matt Hague, former Pirates First Basemen and recent Blue Jays assistant hitting coach will be taking over the duties of Andy Haines. We dive into our early thoughts and feelings of the hire.

We also answer some mailbag questions submitted via social media and email this week from our listeners regarding the Pirates offseason and much more.

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