Pirates Reportedly Showing Interest In Three Free Agent Infielders

The Pittsburgh Pirates are looking to add an impact bat to their lineup this offseason.

Pittsburgh made its first big move of the offseason, trading away Johan Oviedo and two prospects for outfielder Jhostynxon Garcia and right-handed prospect Jesus Travieso. The Pirates entered the offseason with a clear goal of adding more offense, and Garcia is the first step in that.

MLB insider Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported the team is showing interest in free agent infielders Jorge Polanco, Ryan O’Hearn, and Kazuma Okamoto.

“The Pirates’ goal this offseason is to add one or two regulars, plus two to four other less-proven position players who would add depth,” Rosenthal wrote, in a piece published on Thursday. “Garcia, at least for now, figures to fall into the latter category. He is only 22, with only nine plate appearances in the majors. The Pirates envision him as a future regular and will give him an opportunity to make the club out of spring training. But they are not ready to commit to him just yet.

“Infielders Jorge Polanco, Ryan O’Hearn, and Kazuma Okamoto are among the free-agent hitters the Pirates are considering.”

Along with the free agents, the Pirates are also exploring the trade market for another bat.

“Tampa Bay Rays second baseman Brandon Lowe and New York Mets second baseman/outfielder Jeff McNeil are among the other players they might explore in trades. Pretty much every hitter available is on the Pirates’ radar,” Rosenthal added.

Pittsburgh finished last season with a record of 71-91.

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