In our latest podcast episode, we discussed the Pirates’ 1-5 start and how bleak things seem at the moment. We also discussed David Bednar getting optioned and recurring themes that have presented themselves the first time through the rotation.

We also review the potential lower-level minor leaguers we will be watching closely in 2025, including some notable names and some under-the-radar follows.

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In our latest podcast episode, we discuss how the roster is coming together for opening day. How confident do we feel about what the initial 26-man roster is looking for the Pittsburgh Pirates?

We also give our ‘soft’ predictions for how many wins they will finish with and who the most valuable player might be.

Shifting to the minor league side, we go over some projected upper-level prospects we are monitoring this season. The projected Triple-A rotation is an obvious pick, but what other players should you be watching going into 2025?

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In our latest podcast episode, we discuss some of the early happenings in the Pirates’ camp, including Endy Rodriguez and how a healthy version of himself can impact the rest of the lineup.

We also talk about Braxton Ashcraft, Jared Jones, and Paul Skenes all looking to add a two-seamer to their arsenal this season and how it can help the rest of their pitches going forward.

Finally, after inspiration on Twitter, we debate who has a better fastball: Paul Skenes or Bubba Chandler? We take a look at things from an analytical point of view, as well as the eye test.

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In our latest podcast episode, we discuss some of the prospects that will be a part of major league camp for the Pittsburgh Pirates. It’s an intriguing group of names, even if most don’t have a shot at breaking camp with the major league team.

We then shift to the major league side of things and go over some players/storylines we are watching this Spring.

BASEBALL IS BACK.

In our latest podcast episode, we discuss the upcoming International signing period for the Pittsburgh Pirates. They’ve been linked to a few names heading into the signing period, what among that group has stood out?

We then shift to our thoughts on Caleb Ferguson signing, and how that may impact the bullpen this year. We also go more in depth on the bullpen and how we feel about it going into the season as it stands plus a non-roster invite we are watching in camp.

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Support the site by becoming a paid member, and get access to all of our premium content, including our Top 25 list with complete player write-ups and video breakdowns, which come out weekly.

It will also give access to my player feature articles from on-site trips.

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The Washington Nationals have been busy the last day or so, adding a couple of free agents to the mix. Ironically enough, they are both former Nationals and Pirates.

Josh Bell was traded from the Pirates to the Nationals in exchange for Eddy Yean and Will Crowe. After bouncing around with the San Diego Padres, Cleveland Guardians, Miami Marlins, and Arizona Diamondbacks, he returns to DC on a one-year $6 million contract.

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He batted .249 with 19 home runs last year between the Marlins and Diamondbacks.

Williams was brought back on a two-year, $14 million contract after electing free agency. He was having a strong season in 2024 until getting hurt. In 13 games, Williams posted a 2.03 ERA and a 6-1 record across 66.2 innings pitched.

In our latest podcast episode, we answer some of the questions that you submitted the previous weekend. There were some great questions; tune in to listen to us discuss them.

We also talk about some of our favorite moments from the 2024 season, as well as what we are looking forward to in 2025.

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Support the site by becoming a paid member, and get access to all of our premium content, including our Top 25 list with complete player write-ups and video breakdowns, which come out weekly.

It will also give access to my player feature articles from on-site trips.

We have monthly and yearly plans available, with the latter costing an average of $4.16/month.

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In our latest podcast episode, we discuss the Pirates' release of Trey Cabbage. We then follow up with talk of their latest trade, acquiring Enmanuel Valdez, and what impact that has on the roster.

We wrap up with talk on the second base position in general, is it Nick Gonzales' spot to lose? Who could get in his way of being the Opening Day second baseman?

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We recap the 2024 Winter Meetings, which included the big trade the Pirates made to acquire Spencer Horwitz in exchange for three pitchers, one of which was Luis Ortiz.

Then we talk about some early candidates the Pirates could take with the sixth overall pick in the 2025 draft.

Finally, we talk about the Rule 5 draft and what still needs to be done in the offseason.

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After taking a break for the holidays, Nola and Murphy are back to talk about the upcoming Winter Meetings. Should the Pirates take anyone? Are there any early favorites for the 2025 draft?

We also talk about the offseason to this point, how it impacts the Pirates, and if a Salary Cap would help create parity.

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You will not only help the site grow but also get access to our fantastic premium content, which includes our Top 25 rankings and full-player write-ups, video breakdowns, and any features that come from my on-site trips.

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In our latest podcast episode, we discuss Paul Skenes winning the Rookie of the Year award and his actual chances of winning the Cy Young despite being a finalist.

We then move over to the recently concluded Arizona Fall League and our takeaways from the Pirates players who participated.

Finally, we look at Baseball America’s recent Top 10 update for the Pirates system that also included a look at their potential 2028 lineup and rotation, as well as the best tools in the system.

This site is 100% reader-supported, with no revenue coming from ads. If you enjoy our work, consider becoming a paid member today.

You will not only help the site grow but also get access to our fantastic premium content, which includes our Top 25 rankings and full-player write-ups, video breakdowns, and any features that come from my on-site trips.

Bucs On Deck is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.