PT TOMORROW: NL Central—Decisions, decisions (free agent driven)
Sep 15 2018
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
This week, we discuss the return of Heliot Ramos to a crowded lineup situation in San Francisco, and the playing time outlook for prospects throughout the NL West.
Jun 27 2026 3:06am
Jun 27 2026 3:06am
Andrew Painter must hone his technique back in the minors before we can expect to see any MLB masterworks. Plus: 3B in WAS; SP in ATL; C/DH in MIA; 2B at NYM; more.
Jun 26 2026 9:56am
Jun 26 2026 9:56am
The Cubs are hoping Peterson can help stabilize a rotation battered by injuries.
Jun 26 2026 3:05am
Jun 26 2026 3:05am
Journeyman Ryan Kreidler appears to be taking over at SS for the Twins. Plus, bullpen problems in Chicago, checking in on CJ Kayfus and Bo Naylor in CLE, a possible six-man rotation in DET, and Matthew Lugo tearing it up in Triple-A for KC.
Jun 25 2026 3:05am
Jun 25 2026 3:05am
Denzer Guzman has helped shake up the infield in Anaheim and may be locking down a regular role at 3B.
Jun 24 2026 3:05am
Jun 24 2026 3:05am
