Starting Pitching Options Pirates Should Consider

Despite Major League Baseball starting later this month, there remains many solid free agents available. The Pittsburgh Pirates have a questionable rotation going into the season. In fact, according to a poll on the Yinzer Crazy Twitter (@yinzercrazyshow), 88% believe the Pirates should sign another starting pitcher. Let’s take a look at three remaining free-agent starting pitchers that the Pirates should sign.

Mike Clevinger

Mike Clevinger is a 33 year old right handed pitcher. Last year, Clevinger pitched for the Chicago White Sox and did very well. He did well enough that he declined his player option and elected to become a free agent. As of March 13th, his opt out has not benefited him as he has not had many opportunities with other teams.

Last season, Clevinger had a revival type of year where he was better than previous seasons. Through 24 starts, Clevinger posted an earned run average of 3.77 in 131.1 innings pitched with 110 strikeouts. He also had a 1.22 WHIP and a FIP of 4.28. If the Pirates wanted to sign him, then it would be cheap with how long it has taken. I imagine a one-year deal around $10 million. 

Domingo German

Domingo German is a 31-year-old right-handed pitcher who has the most recent perfect game in the entire MLB. German has been with the Yankees for his entire career. This is a risky signing to do because he has had many off-the-field issues in his career. According to sources, the Pirates have been linked to him this offseason, despite his off-field issues.

Last season, German was a very hit-or-miss pitcher. He had some struggles throughout the year but still was productive in New York. Through 19 starts, German posted a 4.56 earned run average in 108.2 innings pitched with 114 strikeouts. He also had a very impressive WHIP of 1.08 and a FIP of 4.65. 

Michael Lorenzen

Michael Lorenzen is a 32-year-old right-handed pitcher who was an all-star last year. In his all-star season, he played for the Detroit Tigers before being dealt to the Philadelphia Phillies at the trade deadline. Lorenzen has been looked at by many teams this offseason but still remains unsigned. 

Last season, Lorenzen was great in the first half, but once he was traded to the Phillies, he threw a no-hitter and then fell apart. Through 25 starts, Lorenzen posted an earned run average of 4.18 in 153 innings pitched with 111 strikeouts. He also had a 1.20 WHIP and a 4.46 FIP.

Each of these three pitchers would improve the Pirates' rotation with the uncertainty from Roansy Contreras, Luis Ortiz, and Quinn Priester. I do not think we should give up on any of these young arms, but a year in the minors might help them develop more before they get another chance with the Pirates.