PT TOMORROW: NL Central—Decisions, decisions (free agent driven)

Pittsburgh Pirates

Jordy Mercer (SS, PIT) has avoided arbitration every year with the Pirates, and has now arrived at free agency. He is a solid-average defender, but a below-average offensive contributor (ranked 14th in NL shortstops OPS). If the Pirates are not able to re-sign Mercer, what are their in-house options, considering backups Sean Rodríguez (2B, PIT) and Jung-Ho Kang (3B, PIT) are free agents as well?

Kevin Newman (SS, PIT) has been the regular shortstop at AAA-Indianapolis since midway through the 2017 season. He made frequent contact at the plate (88% ct%) with a decent (0.53) Eye, but he could stand to walk more (6% bb%) and has very little power. He was recalled in late August, and is getting semi-regular playing time...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

NL West: Díaz to see regular playing time in SD and early season bullpen usage around the NL West
Apr 3 2025 3:08am
How will Richard Fitts be affected by the expected returns of Brayan Bello and Lucas Giolito? Plus, more injury and opening weekend fallout from the AL East.
Apr 2 2025 3:08am
With Josh Jung hurt again, does Jake Burger moving back to 3B make the most sense for the Rangers?
Apr 1 2025 3:09am
And where could the Pirates turn for saves if their late inning relievers continue to struggle?
Mar 29 2025 3:07am
With several outfielders starting the season on the IL, Javier Báez has been getting some center field reps in Detroit.
Mar 28 2025 3:08am

Tools