Pirates Sign SP Eric Lauer to Minors Deal

Despite the season starting in a few weeks, the Pittsburgh Pirates have added another arm to their organization. Left handed pitcher, Eric Lauer, is in agreement with the Pirates on a minor league contract.

Lauer is a 28 year old left handed pitcher who has recently pitched for the Milwaukee Brewers. He has had multiple good years in his major league career, but last season was not one of them. Lauer dealt with a shoulder injury in 2023, causing him to miss time and be less productive.

In 2023, Lauer appeared in ten games, nine of which were from starts. He had a 4-6 record with a 6.56 earned run average in 46.2 innings pitched with 43 strikeouts. He also had a 7.41 FIP and a WHIP of 1.67.

That looks very bad, but Lauer was very good in 2021 and 2022. In those two seasons, Lauer had a record of 18-12 with an earned run average of 3.47 in 277.1 innings pitched with 274 strikeouts. He also had a FIP of 4.30 and a 1.18 WHIP.

Ben Cherington was interested in Eric Lauer as a bounceback candidate. I believe Lauer will be used in AAA, Indianapolis, this season and may be utilized in the bullpen or come up with injuries. There is nothing wrong with having deep depth in the organization in the pitching department.

This will be a decent signing for the Pirates if he can return to his productiveness from 2021 and 2022. I do not anticipate Lauer to be in the starting rotation in Pittsburgh to begin the season, but if he has success, give him a chance.

Welcome to Pittsburgh, Eric!