The MLB trade deadline is less than two weeks away, and the Pittsburgh Pirates are in desperate need of bullpen help.
Looking for a high-leverage reliever, or two, or three, or even four, is going to be costly. It’s especially that way if the Pirates want to pry hometown star Mason Miller from the San Diego Padres.
The Bucs have a plethora of prospects to trade from, but some fans have considered even more drastic measures to acquire a big chip.
Center fielder Oneil Cruz, who is on the 60-day IL until at least August 8th with a hand injury, has been frequently discussed by fans as a headliner for Miller.
We asked fans if dealing Cruz, who still has two years of team control after this season, would be a beneficial move for the team.
61% of fans want the Pirates to KEEP Cruz, per MLB Reacts poll.
Cruz was in line for his first 30/30 season before suffering the injury. In 64 games, Cruz is slashing .264/.350/.472 with 14 home runs and 44 RBIs, playing the best he’s ever played in a Pirates uniform.
Reigning Cy Young winner Paul Skenes opposes Chicago lefty Shota Imanaga, who has dominated the Pirates in his three seasons with the Cubs.
The Pirates continue their series against Chicago on Sunday at 1:35 p.m. and welcome the Arizona Diamondbacks for the first of three on Monday night in two series that will considerably define the Bucs’ level of contention.