PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Pirates have one important need this offseason, that the front office is looking towards free agency for the solution.
Pirates Aiming for New Closer in Free Agency
Jeff Passan of ESPN reported that the Pirates are one of a few teams that are in the market for a closer and relievers in free agency.
Passan did not note that this is a free agency period that contains many multitudes of varying relievers that teams need, which is something that will surely benefit the Pirates.
Why Do the Pirates Need a New Closer?
The Pirates traded David Bednar to the New York Yankees ahead of the deadline, who served as closer for most of the season.
Bednar was the Pirates closer for the vast majority of the past four seasons and now they are reportedly looking for someone to replace his role.
Which Closers will the Pirates Look at in Free Agency?
The Pirates have many options for what they could find in a free agent closer, with many veteran options that would fit into an already, solid bullpen
Ryan Helsley is one name that Pirates fans should monitor. He excelled with the St. Louis Cardinals, earning an All-Star nod in 2022, plus leading baseball in saves with 49 in 2024 and winning National League Reliever of the Year as a result.
Helsley struggled after the Cardinals traded him to the New York Mets at the deadline, but new Pirates pitching coach Bill Murphy would love to get Helsley back on track.