Jason Mackey: Hello, everyone. Welcome to my weekly Pirates chat. We'll get started at noon, but feel free to leave your questions now. Thanks, Jason.
Jason Mackey: And away we go ...
Steven: I’m sure I won’t be the only one who asks this, but why was Castro optioned to AA? Why not put him down at AAA with more major league caliber/ready pitchers?
Jason Mackey: I have a couple theories. One, to continue his relationship with the coaches there. I think they've helped him this season, and they want to continue that. Two, there ain't much time left. In either season. Why up and move, when he might be back in Pittsburgh? Three, I think they want to get Marcano and Tucker playing time. Maybe others. I just think it was the path of least resistance, and I don't see AAA being THAT much better that you absolutely have to make a move right now.
Steven: Did you end up snagging one of those Grateful Dead shirts they gave away in St. Louis?
Jason Mackey: I did not, unfortunately.
Steven: I feel like the Brubaker we saw last night is the real JT Brubaker and that his past few starts were fatigue or something else. Thoughts?
Jason Mackey: I certainly think he showed last night that he's capable, although I didn't doubt that. I don't know what the issue was the past couple of starts. Yes, he left flat stuff up, but why? He has denied fatigue. Pirates have denied fatigue. Mechanics don't look terribly different to me. Will this version hold? I hope so. But I can't guarantee it.
Ty: Why does Rodolfo Castro never get any time in Indy? It’s always MLB or back to Altoona.
Jason Mackey: Before they were trying to give playing time to others in Indy. Now, I just don't think it's worth the fuss. Trust me, it's nothing personal. He's not banned from the ballpark or anything like that.
Steven: What a showing from Chavis last night. You could see the power in that swing. Hopefully there is more to come.
Jason Mackey: Yeah, I like him a lot. Someone -- mark my words -- is gonna surprise and play his way into the Pirates' plans for 2022. Would not be at all shocked if it's Chavis.
Justin: Do you think Tsutsugo and the Pirates have a handshake deal to keep him around for 2022 if things go well? Does the pickup make any sense otherwise?
Jason Mackey: No, I don't. I don't see why either side would agree to that. I think they have playing time to give and a need for players. He wants to be in the show, obviously. And he's cheap. There's a match there. I'm not sure there needs to be anything beyond that.
Don Slaught: Any news on the idea of banning position shifts? Are you for or against?
Jason Mackey: There's no "news." That's not gonna come out now. I'm for it. I think baseball, in myriad ways, needs to get back to the way it used to be -- with balls in play, pace of play, etc. This, to me, would be part of that.
Yuri: Hello Jason. Are you aware of any Dave Parker health updates? Th
Jason Mackey: I have not heard anything good or bad, Yuri. Sorry.
Brian: It’s gonna be hard to lose more than the orioles, and I don’t know how much you know about Elijah Green, but is getting the first pick that much more of an advantage next year than say 2,3, or 4?
Jason Mackey: I've met and done a story on Elijah Green. He's an excellent player, but yeah, I don't see there being a huge difference, honestly. Also, the Diamondbacks are still the worst team in MLB. That said, if the Pirates are in the bottom four, I'm confident they're going to get a difference-maker. Same as it would have been this summer, honestly.
Orlando Merced’s LapDog: When will the Bucs finally move out of town?
Jason Mackey: Hopefully never, considering covering them is how I provide for my family, but thank you for the unnecessary trolling.
Donna: Hi Jason. What are your thoughts on the Pirates playing Polanco? It seems the Pirates want to show some appreciation for his attitude and dedication to the team, but I feel bad seeing his poor play, especially at the plate. Thank you.
Jason Mackey: I don't blame you, Donna. I think they've played him too much. I'm OK with them keeping him on the roster -- at least until he's pushed out by someone, and it becomes a business decision. In my opinion, that hasn't happened yet. But starting him more often than not, you might actually be hurting him more than you're helping him. And you're not earning trust with fans, especially when you say playing time must be earned.
Jim M: Jason, I realize the Pirates aren’t likely to contend for a few years but what would be wrong with going with this lineup for a while: Chavis 2B, Hayes 3B, Reynolds CF, Moran1B, Stallings C, Tsutsugo LF, Alford RF, Newman SS? I get it. Alford, Chavis & Tsutsugo were available because they have been borderline busts but it’s fun for an unrealistic fan like me to dream what if the Pirates help them find their best version of themselves. It would make this team more watchable while we wait for the top prospects to arrive.
Jason Mackey: They could easily do that. They might do that tonight. Gamel is under contract for next year, though. He's been productive. I'd prefer to not bench him. I'd at least rotate him and Tsutsugo. But I see what you're saying about wanting to play other guys and as a fan feeling like there's a future. That's absolutely a fair and logical way to think about this.
Keith: Hi Jason. Any idea who is pitching today?
Jason Mackey: I don't have it confirmed, but my best guess/prediction is Bryse Wilson, coming off the 10-day IL.
Justin: I know you didn't cover the Huntington front office, but what do you think is the main thing or two that the current group is better at than the last group, if anything? Development? Simply committing fully to a rebuild?
Jason Mackey: I covered enough of it. Development, yes. At least so far. I like this group's approach. Seems more individual and baseball- or position-specific. There have also been some aggressive placements and promotions. And how they talk to fans is different, I think. I've heard comments that that's appreciated. It's different/better with media, too, especially Cherington who has been excellent about explaining what they're doing, why they're doing it, etc. I think there's also a greater comfort with processes put in place -- things like scouting and learning about young, high-upside guys, then targeting specific ones in trades, things like using technology to develop pitching prospects or analyzing movement patterns, that sorta stuff.
Sunner in Orlando: Are Chavis, Alford and Tsutsugo just stopgaps for now while our prospects develop or are any of them thought to be part of the Bucs future?
Jason Mackey: They could be. I think it depends on whether they produce. And like a lot of this stuff, if one is productive and entering free agency but the Pirates have an option filling in behind, then, yeah, probably makes sense to trade that guy and restart the cycle. But it shouldn't be a fire sale. It should be turning over duties to a younger player who's ready to produce. Those are different.
Carl in Carrick: Thanks for your chats Jason. I appreciate the defensive effort the Pirates are making this year. While Newman has only 2 errors, can the Pirates afford to “carry”him on offense or do you see someone else starting in his place next season?
Jason Mackey: My pleasure, Carl. It depends on which version of Newman is the real one. If he's the guy who he's been in August, yeah, that'll play. If he's the guy he was in April-July, no. I think you could see them turn things over to Park, Marcano, etc. It'll be interesting to see what happens with Newman the rest of the way.
The Dude: What can you tell us about the Gregory Polanco situation? Was he put on waivers, was he claimed, was he withdrawn, etc. Listening to the broadcast it sounded as if it was supposed to be a secret.
Jason Mackey: Polanco went on outright waivers. He was not claimed. So he remains part of the active roster. Putting him on outright waivers was never to get rid of him. It was done for two reasons: One, to give Greg a chance to get on a playoff roster and, two, for the Pirates to open up playing time without having to DFA Polanco. Didn't happen. In previous years, no, this stuff doesn't leak out, though it has always happened. They also used to have waiver trades, of which this would have been a part. Now, they don't. So this is the club's option. It's a shame it was misreported and confused a lot of fans.
Marc G.: Hey Jason, wondered who you see the Pirates calling up for September. I know they can't call up the entire 40-man, but do you think we'll see anyone who hasn't played in Pittsburgh this year?
Jason Mackey: Good question, Marc. Unfortunately -- and this is ridiculous, IMO -- rosters only expand to 28. I think you could probably see a pitcher and a position player. Someone like Miguel Yajure makes sense. Maybe -- maybe -- Tucupita Marcano on the position player side. I would also consider seeing what Oneil Cruz can do, although those conversations have not yet started.
Brian: Why would Shelton put that recently claimed Japanese player in the leadoff spot for 1 game? I mean it absolutely made no sense. This guy has hit 3 HR's already for us. His game is not suited to bat leadoff. Just ridiculous.
Jason Mackey: "That recently claimed Japanese player" has a name. It's Yoshi Tsutsugo. Lemme ask you this, Brian: What is the harm in trying? They're a billion games under .500. Maybe it works, maybe it doesn't. But, geez. I'm not gonna fault Shelton for giving it a shot. The guy is also hitting .333 with a 1.278 OPS as a Pirate. I'm OK with that guy batting pretty much anywhere.
Todd: Is Newman's late season resurgence gonna mean he will be with the Pirates starting again next year? I think that would be a bad move. A few weeks of good hitting doesn't make up for how awful he's been most of his Pirates career.
Jason Mackey: Well, Todd, in 2019, he was really good. He was bad April-July this year, absolutely. This August has been interesting. And to answer your question, I don't think we know. I think we need to let it play out and see where this goes. I think he could be back. If this hot streak goes away, I also think the Pirates could see this as a blip and turn to someone else there.
Lance: Nobody could believe Polanco started again Monday night after he was put on waivers. I mean, why Jason why? He stinks and is not part of any future with this organization. Thankfully he didn't start yesterday but still got into the game as a pinch hitter. It drives me crazy.
Jason Mackey: I'm continually stunned how offended people get at Gregory Polanco playing. I mean, I get it to a degree, but it's not like he's the reason they aren't good. And with Alford back, you're probably going to see a rotation. Is it that offensive if he stays on the roster? (I probably answered my own question.)
Bruce: I have been very UNIMPRESSED with Rick Eckstein and Oscar Marin. Any chance 1 or both will be gone after the season?
Jason Mackey: Given how this year has unfolded, and the fact that I really doubt they're going to move on from Shelton, yeah, I would be surprised if they didn't make a change. I think Eckstein would probably be the unfortunate fall guy. I also don't think it's deserved. I think Rick is a great guy and the victim of not having enough talent. But he had been there before. The numbers are bad. You have to do something to show fans you care.
NorCal buc: I would much rather see the Pirates climb in the standings while we see dramatic improvements from Keller, Brault, and all the other starters. I’d like to see the bullpen continue to solidly w Bednar as closer and Underwood and Stratton as set-up men. I feel it is MUCH more important for this team to show dramatic signs of improvement with the young core we have, than to continue to loose, as proof that this group has no future. I’d love to see at least a .500 record from here on out. I’m willing for you to concur, Jason.
Jason Mackey: You're allowed to feel however you want. I'm fine with that, although I would like to see auditions as well. See what guys can do.
Prince Bob: How many of the starting pitchers the Pirates have used this season do you think will be in their rotation next season? And how about in 2023?
Jason Mackey: How about 2024? Or 2046? C'mon. Fourteen pitchers have made at least one start. As of now, I'll say Keller, Brubaker, Brault, Crowe, Wilson and Yajure for '22. Kuhl's in the 'pen. Kranick is close. ... '23: go Brubaker, Crowe, Keller, Wilson, Yajure and Kranick. ... I went six-man because it leaves me an easier out and because I hate randomly predictive questions where there's absolutely no way to accurately list what you're asking me to list.
Prince Bob: Did anyone not get traded that you thought would? Do you think Colin Moran is likely to be traded in the off season?
Jason Mackey: Hmmm ... yeah, I was a little surprised that neither Stratton nor Shreve got traded. I thought they both would be gone. And, no, I don't think so. I think you want to see him stay healthy and produce more before making that move. And have a succession plan that's a little more firm and closer.
Lego my Ego: Cole Tucker at this point seems to be an afterthought. I would have thought once the Pirates were out of contention he would have been brought up, kept up and played regularly to kind of give him 1 more chance to show them if he can be a solid player for them as their former first round pick. On the other hand, they continued to trot out Gregory Polanco who was giving them next to nothing. I know it's about money but something about this seems pretty ridiculous to me. Thoughts?
Jason Mackey: I think there's still plenty of time to see what Tucker can do. He's had a ton of chances already. I think you will see him again. We don't know what he may be working on, where his comfort level is at, etc. There are human elements that go into these moves, too. Plenty of time, IMO.
Ed: Hey Jason, Do you see the Pirates designating Newman and Shreve like with Planco so they can get a few more guys up with the limited September roster space? I can't see Newman or Shreve being with the club next year so why wait.
Jason Mackey: Because they've been serviceable major league players? You can't just randomly DFA players when they're of no use to you because then people won't sign with you. Newman has been really good in August. Shreve has been a competent major league reliever. Why can't they just continue to play? I don't see who this is hurting.
Southside Jimmy: Hey Jason. As an avid Roberto Clemente fan, I was wondering if you know of any plans on relocating the museum from its current Lawrenceville location? The museum is one of Pittsburgh’s unknown or under appreciated treasures. A larger building with ample parking would certainly benefit the museum and our city. Thanks Jason.
Jason Mackey: Hey Jimmy, I have not heard anything to confirm this. Sorry.
Wayward: Which do you think is more valuable to a minor leaguer at the end of a season, the chance to play for a championship or a promotion to a level that is not going to make the playoffs?
Jason Mackey: It depends on how much playing they're doing and how it's going. I don't see this as an either/or question. I think it's valuable to get experience, sure. But it has to be the right experience. Is a player lacking confidence or needs a veteran role model to follow? Maybe a lot of observing will help. Does a play need physical reps to practice adjustments or tweaks? Then the playing time route might help more.
Clyde: Can you clear up that pick off play from last night? Tsutsugo was pinch hitting when Chavis was picked off. The following inning Polanco batted for the pitcher instead. Was Tsutsugo considered used there?
Jason Mackey: Yes. Not being a smart ass with this, but if you're officially brought into the game ... well, you're brought into the game. The umpire does this by motioning to the official scorer. Once this happens, that player is in the game. Shelton then made a pitching change to bury the pitcher's spot as far as he could, taking Tsutsugo out of the game.
Wayward: Is Newman on the major league roster next year as the starting SS, super utility guy, or gone?
Jason Mackey: I don't think we know yet. I think we need to see the rest of this year play out. I think all three at this point are still in play.
Ryan: Good afternoon Jason liked what bednar has done this season so far he’s looked pretty good what do you think let’s go Bucs
Jason Mackey: Complete agree. I think he's been fantastic. One of the few bright spots and a future close, IMO.
Jason Mackey: *closer
Jason Mackey: Obviously like the velocity and mentality. Anybody who throws a splitter is OK in my book, and you don't often get a back-end guy with three pitches; his curveball is legit. Very encouraged by Bednar.
Greg: Jason, good morning from Phoenix, AZ. I enjoy these chats and your reporting, and they are a big reason why I maintain my PG subscription. Question, when I read about the Bucco propspect list, I do not recognize any names that are coming out of the ballclub's Latin American training facility. A few years back, ownership of the ballclub was touting its investment in improved training facilities in the Dominican, I believe. Are you hearing of any fruits (prospects) that are being realized from that investment?
Jason Mackey: HI Greg. Thank you so much for that. We appreciate you subscribing, believe me. There are some, yes. But they are generally at the lower levels -- I.e., not yet ranked. There are too many to name here, and I would have to go back through the club's minor league notes, but they do have some decent prospects in the DSL and FCL. One big one to know is Shalin Polanco (no relation).
Matt from LA: Jason, If another team had claimed Polanco off of waivers, in addition to his remaining salary for this year, would they also have been responsible for his next year's salary and or the buy out? If so, the move to put him on waivers was in essence a salary dump?
Jason Mackey: Yes. That team would assume all facets of his contract. It's one of the reasons he wasn't claimed. I wouldn't call it a salary dump, because they didn't actually dump his salary. Maybe a hail mary? Last chance? Not sure.
Clyde: If Tucker isn’t part of a September call up, does that pretty much let you know what the front office thinks of him?
Jason Mackey: Yeah, I think if that does happen, that would show they're done with him. I don't think that's going to be the case, however.
Rich in CA: I haven't been able to see any logic to Shelton's lineups. This is the year to explore and try various players. Instead they seemed to be locked in on several players. What am I missing?
Jason Mackey: Generally speaking, I think Shelton is trying to put his best 9 players out there to win the game. ... Hold the jokes, please. But think about it. Would imagine Shelton, as he should, is trying to do his best to win. Or at least playing the more experienced players because he thinks it gives him a chance to win. If the Pirates get crushed for three years because they have played all prospects, that goes on his resume. People see that. There's a balance between caring about now and the future, and it's not always perfect.
Woobie: Any worries about Mason Martin’s K rate? It’s close to 35%, he’s been striking out more not less in the last month and even past Pirates hackers like Pedro Alvarez and Brad Elded had AA strikeout rates under 30%.
Jason Mackey: I don't know if worried is the right word. Have I noticed it? Yeah. Does it need to be lower? Yeah. I think my way of attacking it would be to actually let him experience some Class AAA and let that inform his offseason thinking and planning. See how that goes. If I have to start him in Class AA next year, I'm OK with that. I want him to give me the middle finger of it. But I'm gonna try to give a taste to help try and fix the problem.
Woobie: This was a few weeks ago, but did you have any issues with Brubaker’s “we’re having fun” comment? It bothered me and seemed like an odd thing to say when he and the team were playing horribly at the time.
Jason Mackey: I saw it both ways. I know what he's trying to say. Knowing JT, I like him and find him to be smart, thoughtful, enjoyable to talk to. Do I think that was the time or place to say what he said? No, I don't. I think you need to let fans know that you care because they're not in the clubhouse and they do care. This was not a good example of that.
Buccos47: Hey Jason, I wanted to ask if you think Keller is going to get better the rest of the season, and how well do you think he will do in 2022?
Jason Mackey: I would hope so. But honestly, we've been through this with Mitch, I'm refraining from opinions or formulating too much of an opinion until I see some consistency. That just hasn't been the case with him.
Derrick: What kind of relationships do those on the beat have? You presumably see each other daily, but is it easy to remain friendly when it comes time to report the same story, vie for coverage, or possibly get to a story first? I'm sorry if that's too personally and you'd rather not address it.
Jason Mackey: No, that's cool. I'm fine talking about any of that stuff. Better than 9,000 questions about Newman or Polanco, believe me. We're cordial. And I think that's important because we see so much of each other. That said, we do compete. I'm extremely competitive and want to be better than everybody else who covers the team. That said, I like all those people and respect them. They do good work, and I would never, ever criticize another outlet in public. This job is hard enough. I think there are boundaries -- like not jumping in a one-on-one interview -- that we need to respect. But when we're not working, just my opinion, I see no reason we can't get along.
Mike: I’m not trying to get you to diss a competitor, just genuinely curious what you think what happened with the initial reporting on the Polanco move? Was it a case of prioritizing speed over all in chase of a scoop? Allowing what one wants to believe prevail over collection of information? Both?
Jason Mackey: I couldn't begin to tell you, Mike. And I'm not gonna criticize anyone because I've made mistakes and will make mistakes in the future. I just said before that it was a shame it came out the way it did because I think it confused a lot of people and just caused a fuss that didn't need to exist.
Woobie: Is Kuhl’s future perhaps a late inning reliever? And does his early success in the pen make it more likely he potentially stays or goes this winter?
Jason Mackey: I think we need to see more. I don't know how we can make that determination based on three outings or whatever he's had. I do think his stuff plays for a late-inning role. The slider is nasty.
Clyde: I get Newman has been outstanding with the glove. And no one is necessarily breaking down the door at that position. But can the Pirates really go into next season with Newman as their starting shortstop when he was statistically the worst bat in all of baseball this year?
Jason Mackey: I don't know if they have a better option at this point, Clyde. Maybe Marcano. Depends on development. I just think we need to kinda tap the brakes here with the Newman freakout. He's been halfway decent in August. What if that continues?
Derrick: Piggy backing off Marc's question...do you see the extra two spots given to any player permanently, or more used to give multiple players a chance?
Jason Mackey: Probably depends on how they perform, honestly. I don't think this is a cookie-cutter thing. Like it doesn't have to be one specific way.
Woobie: Should we be happy the Pirates could sweep tonight or annoyed it’s happening versus Arizona? Part of me is annoyed, but the other part says the Pirates are drafting in the top 4 barring something crazy.
Jason Mackey: I would be happy. They're gonna get a top pick. I wouldn't worry about that. Get the sweep thing in the past.
Benson DuBois: Is Reynolds more likely to be extended or dealt?
Jason Mackey: I think he's more likely to be extended.
ev: How will a winning culture be cultivated once these prospects have matriculated?
Jason Mackey: You would hope that it's been started before that. I think the culture crap gets overblown, too. You need to create an environment where people are free to be as they are, where ideas are encouraged, where the people in charge know what they're doing. The Pirates are fine there. You also need better players. Spare me the culture crap and just produce some results. That'll change the culture real fast.
Hank: Do you think there is a realistic chance we see Oniel Cruz be a September call up option? He has seemed to pick up right where he left off.
Jason Mackey: There's a chance, yeah. But I think we need to see more from him first. I don't think it's automatic by any stretch. Needs to play the field for a stretch and stay healthy.
Muncy: Is Ed Ott still in baseball? Medical issues?
Jason Mackey: I don't believe he's in baseball anymore. I do not know of any possible medical issues.
Munkeefist: Do teams put any weight into the minor league playoffs and could there be any promotions made to strengthen rosters for those games? Thanks Jason!!
Jason Mackey: Yeah, I think they do. I don't know about strengthen rosters, but there are certainly cases where maybe that becomes a valuable developmental opportunity or a challenge that somebody needs.
Boykin: Hey Jason…can you tell us more about Elijah Green? What outfield position is he best suited for? Thanks.
Jason Mackey: He's athletic as all get out. Would say center field at this point. Tall, lean, mature and smart. Arm is good, maybe a little improvement there. Can obviously run. Right-handed hitter with a ton of power. I think I like his makeup most of all, though. Talks like he's 28 or 30.
David S.: Why the opposition to the shift? Wasn't it Wee Willie Keeler who said "hit 'em where they ain't"? Isn't that the essence of hitting? Do that enough times and the shift takes care of itself.
Jason Mackey: I thought I articulated that. I would like to see baseball get back to how it used to be played, when it was more popular. Those are different thoughts for me. I can see why teams shift and do what they do. I would also like to see more of a traditional alignment. Put more balls in play, please.
Woobie: Have you heard good things about Castillo, the other piece in the Holmes trade? Park has gotten a lot of the early attention but Castillo seems like a really well rounded player.
Jason Mackey: I have. He's been excellent. Probably not talked about enough. Has a solid amount of power. Will be curious to see when they might advance him to Class AAA. Good eye. Plays a couple different spots. Honestly reminds me a little of Rodolfo Castro.
Jason Mackey: OK, folks. That's it for me this week. Gotta go cut the grass before heading to PNC. Thanks so much, and talk to you again next week.
First Published: August 25, 2021, 2:57 p.m.
