Jason Mackey: Hey everyone. Welcome to my weekly chat. Sorry I'm getting a late start. Down at PNC Park for Sheetz event (and Bob Nutting stuff). Let's get going.
Seferg: If Skenes and Jones are on an innings limit, who will be inserted into their rotation spots when they hit their limit?
Jason Mackey: Good question. What the Pirates have done with these guys has been to try and avoid a shutdown. It remains to be seen what they'll do with Jones, who's on pace to crush his previous career-high in IP. I think you'll see them skip starts and maybe move to a six-man rotation to space them out. Could mean more opener/Ortiz. Martin Perez. Maybe Quinn Priester. I think they'll give Domingo German a shot. Mike Burrows is coming back. Those are some names who could give breathers.
Cullen: If we move Cruz off short could Triolo be this windows Jordy Mercer? Great glove at the premium spot and anything his bat adds is gravy. I have to say his actions look smooth at short every time I see him there and id bet with more consistent playing time that he is closer to the bat he had last year than this one.
Jason Mackey: He could, sure. But I think we're down the road. Where does Cruz go? Does Triolo hit enough? Does something happen with Peguero? What if Gonzales keeps hitting, does he bump over for Termarr? I have no idea. But that's part of the calculus. I need to see more offense out of Triolo. I have no doubt he can handle it defensively.
Cullen: JJ bleday seems like the perfect option to shore up our long term OF. Reynolds, JJ, Cruz (if/when he moves), Jack, and Joe would be one of the best in the league. This could also open up Reynolds exploring 1B or Joe moving there permanently if Palacios, White Jr, etc earn a spot. Bleday probably wouldn't cost a ton since this is his first year of production but I just can't see why the A's would give him up with so much control left unless we overpayed in a big way. Could a package around Harrington get talks started?
Jason Mackey: You're binging on the theoretical today, brother. Yeah, Bleday makes sense, for the reasons you outlined. Maybe the A's wanna use this as a way to restock. They're obviously not competing now. But Palacios, Lonnie White Jr., Harrington ... we're down the line. FWIW, I would really struggle to give up Harrington. Keep good young starting pitching. Other ways to address a need.
Spaceman: Nice article on the Penguin goaltender situation. Agree with your final assessment on the two veteran goaltender tandem approach vs a Jarry trade. Question: You expect Pens to ride it out with what they have (with minor deals / pickups) or make a major acquisition(s) for a playoff push in 2024/2025?
Jason Mackey: Thanks, Spaceman. Appreciate that. Glad you enjoyed it. I think it might be both, honestly. And here's what I mean: They know they need to fix the power play. To fix the power play, you need what profiles as a top-six wing. To get a top-six wing, you have to pay him and probably give up something to get him or fit him under the cap. They're gonna make moves -- and probably not nips and tucks. So, yeah, I do see them making moves to get back to the playoffs in 2024-25. It's just a matter of what those become.
PrinceBob: Assuming that Henry Davis does not find his bat what do the Pirates do at catcher? Davis seems to have proven he can hit minor league pitching so there seems no point to sending him down again. Grandal doesn't add anything offensively. Are either of them so good defensively that they're assets even if they don't hit? If they find a catcher who can hit do you release Grandal? Send Davis to Indy for the balance of the season and try him in Pittsburgh again next year? And where does Jason Delay fit in all of this?
Jason Mackey: I think he will, first off. But if there's ultimately concern over Davis' bat -- I think he deserves another run of playing time after coming back from the concussion -- then they might need to go get someone. Not super concerned about getting a catcher who can hit. They have greater needs. Depends some on Bart, depends on what Henry shows. If he hits, he stays. If he struggles, then you figure it out.
JoeHa: Hey Jason….Do you think that the obsession by Pirate broadcasters with playoff positioning and games back is a bit much this early in the season. In the not so distant past this chatter didn’t begin until mid to late August. I believe everybody should focus on winning as many games as possible right now … not how many games back the Pirates are of the 3rd Wild Card spot
Jason Mackey: Remember, the broadcasts are always team-friendly. That said, I don't care. We're really gonna complain about talk about how many games out of the wild card? After what they've gone through recently, they could commit far worse crimes.
PrinceBob: How does Mlbtv still get to keep saying "watch every out of market game" in their promos when you can no longer watch out of market games that on Apple TV?
Jason Mackey: Good point. I don't know.
Alan in Alabama: Morning! Just curious. Do you see a bunch of these chat submissions as unsatisfied "fans" just finding an opportunity to vent? I love the "Hey. Now that Tomlin signed an extension, obviously he can coach as long as he wants to and the Rooney's are satisfied with mediocrity and do not care about championships anymore" shots that are always appearing...Do these people think that Rooney and Tomlin are waiting desperately for the PG to come out so they can read what these people are saying about them? I get frustrated at times as well but I also realize that those gentlemen are in the positions that they are in for a reason...They are NOT perfect BUT they have had quite a bit of success over the years. Now they just need to get back to winning in the playoffs...and I think they are on track for that!
Jason Mackey: I respect your opinion. I also respect the opinion of those who see things differently. As I said to gentleman this morning, ripping into me because I wrote a column that was positive about Tomlin, it would be weird if everyone agreed. I just ask that you disagree at least reasonably respectfully and try to avoid name-calling, insults and other stupid stuff.
Mark C.: Do you think the very public comments by Bob Nutting this morning about not only thinking the playoffs are attainable and the need to upgrade the offense will light a fire under Ben Cherrington to show a little urgency?
Jason Mackey: I would imagine that was part of the intent in Bob saying them. And, yes. I do.
Jeff: Why is Suwinski still on mlb roster?
Jason Mackey: Would imagine they think he can work out his issues here. I understand those who disagree. I, too, would rather give him the cover of the minor leagues to find his stroke.
Ryan: Good afternoon Jason what do you think about the play of Colin Holderman and Bryan Reynolds Colin should be in the all star game so should Reynolds LETS Go BUCS
Jason Mackey: As much as I've liked what Reynolds has done recently, it's tough sledding at his position. But he has been incredible. Holderman ... sort of the same, though he has been one of the best relievers in baseball. Could see him making the ASG ahead of Reynolds, honestly. At this point, Skenes and Keller have to go. Might be tough to get a third Pirates pitcher.
Guest: Hey Jason! So uhhh… who’s starting tonight?
Jason Mackey: Carmen Mlodzinski. Would imagine Luis Ortiz serves as the bulk guy.
Fred: Rumors are out there that the Pirates do not want to part ways with their top 10 prospects. If that's the case, who are legitimate options for adding an offensive weapon to this lineup? Is there a priority on position? OF then 1st?
Jason Mackey: Don't know where that's coming from. I doubt the Pirates would trade a top 100 prospect in baseball, but most everybody is tradable -- for a price. We'll see. Bob Nutting talked today about needing offense. Would make more sense for that to happen in the outfield than first base.
Cameron: If you were in the Pirates front office, how would you manage Skenes and Jones’ innings? Skipping starts, six-man rotation, AAA, etc.?
Jason Mackey: I'd shift to a six-man rotation and space out their starts.
Guest: What happened to the pirates alternate black jersey with the gold P? Wish they would wear that at home and the black script Pittsburgh on the road.
Jason Mackey: I'm not sure. Honestly, I don't track the uniform stuff as closely as I should. I know they wear them.
Justin: What the heck happened to Jack Suwinski
Jason Mackey: I think the approach the Pirates are trying to take with him as him thinking entirely too much. I wish they would strip it down to see ball/hit ball. He seems caught in between a lot. He's a naturally gifted athlete ... and he's not taking advantage of any of it.
Jason: With prospects being more under a microscope June/July do you think it’s better to keep them at lower level longer against weaker competition, or promote them to show they can perform at a higher level?
Jason Mackey: I think it depends on the prospect. How will he respond to failure? Where's his head at mentally? Is he working on things? How far along is that process. It's never black and white.
Fitzgerald>White: Steve Blass told a great story the other day about how Danny Murtaugh once fined him $100 for not hustling to first base to cover a grounder that had gone between first and second. What would the fine be in today's dollars for Tellez standing at home plate and staring at his hit to center earlier this week, thinking that he had hit a homer? It's just embarrassing how certain players on this team have either a lack of hustle, or a lack of awareness when running the bases.
Jason Mackey: Derek Shelton said it might be bourbon. But you're right. That was ridiculous. Rowdy knew it was ridiculous. At least he got to second.
Jeff: Pirates haven’t been able to develop many impact hitters. Why would you be reluctant to give up pitching prospect for a controllable bat that is needed with the current lack of bats in system?
Jason Mackey: Because they will never spend what it takes to acquire solid starting pitching on the open market. You can find bats easier and cheaper.
Commissioner: All of this Aiyuk trade talk is exhausting. Where do you put the percentage chance the Steelers get him and what do you think it takes to get him? Thank you
Jason Mackey: I think the percentage is below 50%, sadly. I just don't see how that makes sense when you think about what he wants on a subsequent contract. They could acquire him for picks. I have no doubt. But it's that looming deal that worries me. And I doubt that would give up a haul for one year.
Greg: Hi Jason, next month, do you think the Pirates will draft for need - a 1st baseman or do they go best player available ?
Jason Mackey: I think they'll go BPA.
Guest: Jason, are you moving Suwinski and Peguro for Bleday? I’ve that from I think Poni. Thoughts?
Jason Mackey: I would do that deal in 3 seconds. It started with something Noah Hiles said on Poni's show.
SDWC: Do you think Ortiz will get a shot at a rotation spot?
Jason Mackey: He has one. What's the difference if he pitches innings 2-6 or 1-5? I like them hunting matchups for him. I think it has helped. Whatever they're doing with Ortiz, IMO, they should keep doing it.
SDWC: Does Travis Williams get involved at all in baseball decisions, or is he just mostly running the business?
Jason Mackey: He's almost all on the business side. He might ask some questions. But they're 30,000 feet ... and minimal. I wouldn't be surprised if they eventually made Cherington the president of baseball oprations and Travis the president of business operations.
Jordan: 2 questions: First, what tips would you give to someone who wants to be a sports beat writer, and is currently in college? Who do you see as the unsung hero of the Steelers defense this season?
Jason Mackey: Hi Jordan. First, do everything. No experience is bad experience. Any sport, any subject, any level. Just write. So many people underestimate the writing and reporting aspect of this job. It's not about being a sports fan. If you know how to write and report, asking questions and building relationships, you can learn the rest. Second, Elandon Roberts.
Jason Mackey: I think the Steelers linebackers will be really good. Patrick Queen may very well shine. But Roberts will be the one doing some of the dirty work, allowing everyone to work off of him.
Josh: Jason, am I truly the no-brainer option that everyone is talking about?
Jason Mackey: Josh ... Bell? I don't think so, no.
Jeff: What is realistic to trade at deadline for a hitter?
Jason Mackey: I would start with lower-level prospects with upside. I also wouldn't be afraid to deal a top-10 guy, but it would take a lot for me to part with a pitcher.
Kendall: Hi Jason, how’s Endy’s rehab coming along?
Jason Mackey: It's good. We should learn more today from Todd Tomczyk. He's taking batting practice from the left side. Throwing out to 90 feet. Have heard of no issues.
Yasmani: Jason, from 1 to 10 on the egregious scale, with 10 being the former Bucco now residing in Japan who once ran a batter back to home, where do my pathetic lollipops back to the pitcher rank?
Jason Mackey: Will Craig doesn't live in Japan. Don't know if he's ever been to Japan. He played in Korea for a stretch. Believe he's now an assistant coach at Belmont University in Nashville. Egregious rating: 8.
Marlon's Byrd: These things usually sort themselves out, but if Perez comes back healthy, does he go into the rotation? Should Ortiz be moved back INTO the rotation?
Jason Mackey: I think you'll see Perez be given a chance to stick. They could both go in, honestly, as a pseudo six-man kinda deal. But I think Perez will get a shot to stick around given his deal, veteran status, etc.
Marlon's Byrd: Should Jack be put out of his misery and sent down? Doesn't it say something that we'd rather put Palacios out there over him?
Jason Mackey: Yeah, it's surprising. Should it continue, I can't imagine how much longer they would ride it out, honestly.
Darnell: Hey Jason, I know Roberto and Willie played before your time, but have you heard what kind of relationship they had, if any? The picture of Willie congratulating Roberto on his 3000th hit made me wonder about this. Thanks.
Jason Mackey: Not too much. I think they were cordial and respected one another. But I have never heard of them hanging out extensively away from baseball or anything like that.
Mike A: Jason, how can a guy look like a world beater to open the season, and then look like Zeise in the batter's box forever thereafter? It seems like if the ability is in there, it should make itself present for more than a fortnight per year, no?
Jason Mackey: I worry the Pirates' approach has been oil and water with Taylor. This has gone on a long time. The dude has hit before. We know this. But he has been unplayable in Pittsburgh. It's almost like Rowdy. Go back to what you did before you got here -- which is obviously a bigger organizational problem.
AJ: Randy Arozerena? I heard the rumor recently and like it. His splits are pretty even and is controllable. What say you?
Jason Mackey: I wouldn't hate it. But I would be surprised if the Rays were willing.
Louis' Lipps: If Wilson shows that he IS on his last legs and Fields shows that he is just a more athletic Trubisky where do we turn? I sure as heck hope not, but as of today, ANYTHING could happen, right? Wilson and Fields could both be very bad or very good, right?
Jason Mackey: Good question. Honestly, if they're asking Russ to do a ton, it's the wrong approach. They need to run the ball behind a very good offensive line, take occasional shots downfield and utilize the tight ends. I don't know if they'll pull that off. But I know I don't want Russ -- or Fields -- chucking it 45 times a game.
SDWC: It’s hard for me to believe that Carmen was a first round draft pick and the most they can get out of him is as an opener and a middle reliever. I never hear any negative feedback for that pick, like we do for Davis.
Jason Mackey: I think Carmen has been more productive at the MLB level than Henry. That's probably why. That said, it's way early for both. I think there's a lot in there with Henry. I think he's going to be fine. I know people want results now. But look at Gonzales. Took him time. Henry will get there.
Angel: Jason, I need to seriously chill out on the whole Caitlin thing, yes?
Jason Mackey: Umm, no. I respect the passion. I think it may have gone over the line. At the same time, what's the big deal? It's a rivalry. You're gonna have people on both sides. They're adults. Hopefully it brings more attention to the WNBA. It's been a fascinating plot to monitor from afar.
Ricky: Thanks for the chats. With his illness, do you think Dave Parker will be given more consideration for the Hall of Fame?
Jason Mackey: I hate to see it attached to his illness. At the same time, it better be soon. Like this fall soon. And I think it could be. Believe he's eligible for the group a fall committee will review.
Jordan: Joe's mostly been dropped in the lineup against righties, but has been at the top against lefties. Is that just Shelton playing matchups vs starters or something else?
Jason Mackey: Joe has hit lefties much better than he does righties. That's how Shelton constructions lineups and why it changes a bunch.
SDWC: Do you expect the Oilers to complete the comeback? I think it ends tonight.
Jason Mackey: I think it does, too. Florida isn't blowing this.
George T: Hi Jason, I love how a lot for fans and sport folks did not like Art giving Mike a contract extension. Maybe Art is more like his grandfather than his father. They think with a new HC they would be winning play off games. But they could also be like the Steelers before Dan started running the team.
Jason Mackey: Yeah, I don't have any issue with the Tomlin extension. Perhaps I should. My friend this morning said he vomited in his mouth after reading my column. How dare I not believe he should be fired immediately?
Nicky G: Jason, have I been better in the field than you would have prognosticated prior?
Jason Mackey: Very much so. Has been a pleasant surprise.
guest: So Triolo has the lowest OPS of anyone with regular ABs in the majors, and Peguero has been solid in AAA. Peguero can fill that utility man position. Have they soured on Peguero?
Jason Mackey: Peguero can't fill that utility man position. He plays two positions -- and one (SS) not particularly well. They might give Peguero a shot, but he's not a utility guy.
Connor: Jason, if you had to bet a columnist's generous yearly stipend, do I bring home the Cup to its rightful abode north of the border?
Jason Mackey: Sadly, no. Would be an awesome storyline. But I don't see how the Panthers let this get away.
SDWC: What position do you think will be Cruz’s final destination? People mention outfield and I just get Gregory Polanco flashbacks of somebody falling all over themselves.
Jason Mackey: Yeah, that's a good one. I don't like first base because you're wasting his arm. Outfield talk stalled. Shortstop hasn't been good. Guess I'll go OF among those options. He's such a great athlete that I think he could figure it out.
Jason Mackey: OK, folks. That does it for me. Thanks so much for doing this. Sorry I was late, but it was for a good reason. We'll get together again next Friday.
First Published: June 21, 2024, 3:30 p.m.
