Jason Mackey: Hello, everyone. Sorry for the delay. Let's get right to it.
Lonnie Chisenhall: Miss me yet? I'm still here....give me a call!
Jason Mackey: Thanks, Lonnie. Stay well.
Guest: are the Pirates for real? Some of these players that they just put on the roster I never even heard of. Why not bring up the kids?
Jason Mackey: What do you mean for real? Like are they actual people? I just saw them yesterday, so I think so. Because you need to develop players. Some aren't ready, and that's OK. You also have some vets who may be good, and if you are, you try to trade them.
barkscotty: What's the chance Hayes gets traded in the short term? If he pans out...other teams will jump at the chance to get him. Given the history of this regime, it's hard to deny that they might try to dump the contract even though the per year value pales in comparison to other contracts in the MLB.
Jason Mackey: Zero. Why would they do that? They've taken a pretty big risk. Kid had a .689 OPS last year. He can do better. Why would they trade a player they just signed at his lowest people? This is a case of Pirates Fan Always Assuming the World. I get why it exists, but it shouldn't govern reality.
Greg: Jason, Hi, thanks for the great job your doing. With most of the key future Pirates in AA, do you think the plan is to leave them there all year or will they be September call ups? Also do you think they will get something done with Reynolds?
Jason Mackey: I think they will get a two-year something done with Reynolds. And thanks, Greg, for the kind words. An extension? Not this offseason. Not ruling it out, but they're not close. They haven't been close in terms of valuation on the player. As for the minor league stuff, I don't think they know. And that's OK. I think it will depend on how guys perform. If, say, Nick Gonzales dominates AA, then, yeah, he's gonna move up. If he hits .220, he won't.
Benson DuBois: We don't know this, but say the Bucs have an operating budget to legitimately support a $100M payroll on the major league level.
Benson DuBois: We don't know this, but say the Bucs can legitimately support a $100M payroll. Are they saving for mid-decade when they may have a legitimate chance? I can deal with the pain of today, if that is the true end-game.
Jason Mackey: Sorry. Moved the first one over before I saw your next question. More or less, yes. I think the Pirates are spending right now where it makes sense for them -- Hayes, international, draft, coaching, tech, scouting, etc. Not major league players because they don't feel like they have enough of a chance to compete. They can't say that, obviously. But it's part of the team-building process. Have said this a bunch, I don't think good, smart baseball people would come here if they didn't think the Pirates would try to do this the right way. That will mean spending on Hayes and other things.
Maz01: Hi Jason, Here is a two part question, with the signing of Ke'Bryan Hayes, do you think the Pirates got him cheap 8 years and $70 million and also, since they signed him to that contract, but you believe that means Bryan Reynolds will be traded ?
Jason Mackey: No on the second part, at least not now. If the Pirates don't believe they can extend Reynolds -- and that might be reality, who knows -- then there might come a time for that. It's not now.
Jason Mackey: And I don't really have any takes on the Hayes thing. Guess I should. Strikes me as a deal that's fair for both sides. Will also depend on how he performs over the life of the contract. Right now, more than anything, it's a gamble. A calculated one, mind you. But it's still a risk.
Gene: When do they expect Greg Allen to come back ?
Jason Mackey: Not for at least 60 days, I know that.
Lad09: An on the field future question for you since I suspect that you will be bombarded with contract/money queries today. If Mason Martin can't tame the K monster enough to be a viable option in the majors, is there anyone in the prospect group that should start hitting the shores of the Allegheny in 2023/24 that could slot in at first base?
Jason Mackey: The K monster! Hope I don't get bitten by the K monster. Umm, short answer is probably not, no. You're not gonna put Oneil Cruz over there. I can't think of anyone off-hand with left-handed power close to that of Martin or Cruz. Goal would be to develop some, obviously. Triolo and Davis are righties. Thought about them, but you're saying Allegheny River.
Bob Nutting: I'm thinking of trading ONiel Cruz for 28oz can of crushed tomatoes....not the store brand type...that would be stupid....I'm thinking Contadina!
Jason Mackey: What an amazing question/comment. Insightful and humorous.
befuddled: Why sign an unproven (never really did anything significant in his first full year) and is hurt often to a long term contract and ignoring a proven commodity in Bryan Reynolds?
Jason Mackey: Because it's not Giant Eagle and you can't just pick out what you want to put in your cart? Reynolds and the Pirates haven't been close on an extension. Different with Key. This deal makes sense for him. It's also a smart risk for the Pirates. You're betting on a player's future and that he'll become what you think he'll become. They're trying to fix the Reynolds situation as I reported.
Jeff T: saw your story about the Pirates not wanting to go to arbitration with Reynolds. If it does get that far, what do you think the odds would be that the procedure would be less acrimonious than a typical hearing, in order to maintain good relations?
Jason Mackey: If they got to arb, it would be bad. It always is. Team rips player. Player voices frustration. Nobody wins. They're trying to avoid that with this "procedure," by maintaining precedent with file-and-trial with a two-year deal and hopefully enabling talks on a bigger extension.
Maz01: Jason, The Pirate lineup that took the field yesterday was the worst opening day lineup that I have ever seen including the 1962 Mets, Is GMBC goal to tank again this year and not even try?
Jason Mackey: I don't think the goal is to tank again and not even try, no. But I do think they understand where they are in the rebuild, they want to use playing time to give to players and let them play their way into asset territory and continue to truly build from within.
Bryce: Why do the Pirates get rid of great players like McCutchen, Marte, Polanco, Neil Walker, Mercer, Josh Harrison, Josh Bell, Adam Frazier, Cervelli, Russell Martin, Gerrit Cole, Charlie Morton, Tony Watson, Mark Melancon, and other great players? Like this was the elite team and ever since 2014 the franchise has gone down hill. I am annoyed with this franchise staff and can't stand being a fan anymore. After I heard the news of Polanco being traded/released, that was the last straw for me. Now I'm a White Sox and Mariners fan because I wanna watch more of Josh Harrison and Adam Frazier. Just annoying that the Pirates are like the only team that does this.
Jason Mackey: They're the only pro team that trades players? Bryce, I understand that the Pirates have been cheap and done stupid things. I'm not defending them. But let's not act like this doesn't happen all over pro sports. That stuff is designed to happen. That being said, yeah, the Pirates have done that too much. It's not fair to fans. They need to be different, no doubt. I also can't give you one reason that covers all of those situations. They're all different.
PrinceBob: I'm guessing you like the Hayes contract even though he really hasn't hit spectacularly and has been injury prone? But it got me thinking about the times the Pirates have done these kinds of deals and how well or poorly they went. McCutchen was a giant success. I'd say Marte was a success except for the time he was suspended. From there, Polanco was maybe as much a bust as McCutchen was a success. Who else was there? Jose Tabata seemed a minor bust. I can't really decide about Jason Kendall. Who have I missed?
Jason Mackey: You're right on the first point. They have to take these chances. Why would I hate it? They're spending money. Isn't that what we get on them about? I think you got the pertinent ones. Relative recent, I wouldn't put, like, Burnett or Martin in that category.
PrinceBob: I was watching a video of 75 year old Bill Lee pitching an inning for a minor league team in Georgia. My first thought was that the Pirates should sign him but the real question it brought up was whether Sabremetrics have killed the soft tosser? Are there any in MLB you can think of? And how about knuckleballers? Is anyone in MLB throwing one?
Jason Mackey: Not that I know of, no. It's all about velocity, unfortunately.
Justin R.: It seems like there is diminished optimism for Miguel Yajure. Is this attributable only to his injury history? He was a former Top 100 prospect and has pitched well when healthy, yet he doesn't often come up in discussions of the future rotation.
Jason Mackey: I don't know where you're getting diminished optimism. He was just a little hurt and slow to get going. Maybe that's what you're picking up on. He's gonna pitch in St. Louis, and I'll be curious to see how he fares. I like him. Good kid. Has an excellent arsenal. May need some more development, but it's in there.
Herman: Any word if the AAA team is going to change their nickname?
Jason Mackey: I don't believe so. Not sure if that's final, but that review process started a while ago and didn't lead to anything. So ... I don't know what the holdup could be.
Munkeefist: Watching Cole Tucker play in the outfield makes me nervous...Probably a higher ceiling with the glove than Polanco if he committed to it, but I sure hope the Pirates take a swing and promote one of our AAA guys before too long...Who do you think gets the first shot if you had to guess? Thanks for the chat!! Love your work!!
Jason Mackey: Outfield-wise, not sure. Will be based on who's playing well, and we haven't seen enough to judge. With Marisnick in the fold, I think he will get plenty of reps out there. You may see Tucker a ton, but I think he's back to more of a utility role.
Wayward: Jason, I hope you are going to do something fun in St. Louis today! Per your story this morning, what do you think a reasonable 2 year deal for Reynolds would be? 2 year 10.5?
Jason Mackey: I haven't left my desk/computer since I got up this morning because of work stuff. I'm having a blast. :-) Getting outside would be nice, if possible. I need a little break. I would say two years and $9.5M-$10.5M would be reasonable.
PrinceBob: Do you have a feeling for how long Brian Reynolds will be a Pirate?
Jason Mackey: For a couple more years anyway. Beyond that I think will come down to whether they're able to get anywhere with extension talks. So far they haven't. But I don't see them trading him like this year or even next.
LJG: I think the Hayes extension was a big mistake for an injury prone player who had I good month and they have Triolo in the pipeline Do you think the Pirates will come to agreement with Brian Reynolds on long term contract?
Jason Mackey: I don't agree with your Hayes assessment, but that doesn't matter. You're allowed to feel however you want. I have my doubts. I wanna think so, believe me. But I don't have much evidence to support optimism at this point.
Tiberius Sempronius Gracchus: Is Vogelbach going to be the regular leadoff hitter? I understand that he has a decent career on base percentage but with his potential power, a more more middle of the order slot would seem more appropriate. I know there's no Omar Moreno on the current roster but Tucker or Newman would seem to be a better choice, no?
Jason Mackey: No, I don't think he's going to be the regular leadoff hitter. I think Shelton is tinkering with some stuff. Wouldn't shock me if he scrapped it by Saturday, honestly. Also don't know how much Vogelbach likes hitting there.
Idggy DeBeau: More of the same and probably a little worse than last year. What did we as patrons do wrong to deserve this?
Jason Mackey: As the great Mick Jagger once sang, "You can't always get what you want. But sometimes, you get what you need."
MjB: They play 162 games. I have been on teams that have been destroyed one day and came to life the next. I can get past that. I don't understand the lineup or the approach to Wainwright. He beats the Pirates every time because we flail at breaking balls. He rarely strikes one of Bucs with a fastball. I understand that Wainwright is most likely HOF pitcher, if I don't understand the terrible game plan at all.
Jason Mackey: I don't think their game plan was to look at called strikes, swing through pitches and mis-hit balls. I think Wainwright is a better pitcher than most of them are hitters. He fools with them. Their timing is off. They're not able to counter what he's doing. That's why he's been doing this, feels like, since the 80s. And they will lose 90 to 100 games.
Larry: What is the Pirates' Opening Day payroll, and which source for this information is the most reliable? I've read various things from third lowest in MLB to lowest. And what really is the most important indicator - 26-man roster, injured reserve additions, retained contracts, or total payroll?
Jason Mackey: I usually go with Baseball Prospectus, which projected them to be last at $36.8 million before the Hayes deal. But this stuff can get hugely confusing. it's tough because we don't know team control amounts for < 3 guys. Polanco is the only retained $3 million. I usually go with 26 -- it's 28 this year. That puts the Pirates at $38,525,000 with $700K for the under 3 crowd. That's not accurate, but it gives you a picture. And this is before the Hayes extension, which is not yet official.
Alex Madison: If, big IF, the pirates extend Ryenolds, can we kiss goodbye any chances of a impactful FA signing for the next 5 years? Team payroll might chase $60M, thats way too much!!! :-)
Jason Mackey: No, I don't think that's the case. I think they will sign meaningful free agents when they're better and have more prospects ready for the big leagues -- and this isn't an Oneil Cruz thing. I'm talking like Cruz, Contreras, Martin, CSN, Mitchell, Peguero, Priester, Mlodzinski, Gonzales, Davis, Burrows, etc. Not all but some. Need a greater volume of talent, then you'll see other signings.
Wayward: Jason, is Marisnick automatically the normal 3rd OFer or do you think they give Tucker the bulk of the opportunities?
Jason Mackey: I think they'll see how it shakes out, but I would expect Marisnick -- because of his experience and defense -- to get more reps than Tucker, at least initially. I think it will also depend on who hits. That hasn't typically been a strength for Marisnick in the past. I do think he winds up being their regular 3OF.
The Eman: Question about long term deals like Hayes just signed. Does the club purchase any type of insurance to protect their financial obligation in the event of a player injury that ends their career?
Jason Mackey: Some do. It usually depends on the size of the contract. I do not known Here's a good read from The Washington Post on the topic: https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/sports/wp/2016/09/09/worried-about...
ev: Hi Jason, I am stunned STUNNED that the Pirates inked Hayes, although, I think, it was a very team friendly deal considering what Atlanta paid for their pre arbitration 1B. When will cooler minds prevail and decide that $650K is nothing or, perhaps, sign Reynolds for a long term deal?
Jason Mackey: I think fairly soon, honestly. I don't think they will get to a hearing with Reynolds. Don't know if they will sign him to a long-term extension, but I think they'll try. Long way to go.
MjB: I realized I should clarify. The choices of Hoy Park and leading off with Vogelbach. Foremost, Vogelbach cannot lead off. If you're going to play Newman, lead off with him or Hayes. Then, use Castillo until you are sure that hot streak was not a fluke. Park may figure it out, but at this point, is he really your starting 2B?
Jason Mackey: Shelton said yesterday that second base is going to be fluid. Same with leadoff. Have some patience, MjB. There are 161 of these things. Nothing is etched in stone.
Jeff: Two questions.
Hayes has the big contract now, assuming it is signed and official. Do the Bucs try to get something done with Reynolds?
Last, I haven't heard how ticket sales are going. I used to hear about that in years past, but not so much. Any word on how that is going?
Jason Mackey: I think they will, yes. At least to avoid a hearing. ... What would you hear in the past? Curious. Because I've tried in the past, and that's typically not something I see the Pirates commenting on. ... Progress is not great, I would say. They're trying to sell out the home opener. I don't think they'll get there. ST have dropped. It's just part of where they're at right now.
Brad Lincoln: How many of our Young Bucs need to come up to get us to .500. Two thirds (at least) of our roster is made up of guys who should be bench players or in AAA. Even if Cruz and Contreras come up and do well, using WAR they're only gonna, AT BEST improve us by 5-7 wins right 'out of the box.
Jason Mackey: Yeah, no. They're not gonna bring up the Young Bucs because they'll magically make everything better. This is the backup QB theory. They're gonna bring 'em up when they're ready. Maybe they help. Maybe they don't. But it won't be to chase results with the MLB club.
Mike: Will Bryan reynolds be a pirate next year?
Jason Mackey: I think so, yes.
Punxy Fan: Thanks for your good work Jason. Good for Hayes-Pirates, hope a Reynolds deal happens soon. Different take on Cruz not starting with the big club so he can get more seasoning: wouldn’t he have gotten better mental seasoning by experiencing an opening day in St Louis with the excitement of Pujols’ return and playing 4 MLB games, then coming back for the home opener and being part of a team experience? Now, when he does come to PNC Park, the buildup and pressure will be such that he’ll disappoint people if he doesn’t go 4-for-4 with 5 homers. Is the mental aspect part of the Pirates’ calculations? Long question, sorry.
Jason Mackey: Thanks, Punxy. I don't think Cruz is affected by the mental side of playing in a major league park. Didn't look that way last year. I think you'll see him after they preserve that year of control.
DrScotTB: Love your work Jason! Why are the Pirates trying to force Oneil Cruz to become an outfielder? Why not let him develop as a shortstop and leave him there?
Jason Mackey: They're not "trying to force him" to do anything. I think they want that to be an option for him because they might have another really good SS in Liover. Can't play both at the same time, and Cruz has an arm and athleticism that could play well in the outfield. He also hasn't been the greatest defensive SS, although I don't care with his offensive capabilities.
Ryan: Good afternoon Jason asked Paul zeise yesterday who he thinks i will lead pirates in home runs strikeouts and wins in going with Reynolds Keller and Keller who do you think see you on Wednesday when we play the Cubs
Jason Mackey: I agree with those answers.
Guest: Why the change in demeanor in regards towards a potential extension of Reynolds?
Jason Mackey: My own two cents: I think by the time Nutting learned they weren't going to settle with Reynolds, it was too late. And he wasn't happy about what his people did. He let it go, not wanting to meddle, and boom. They're taking Reynolds to arb. Again, speculation on my part. Don't know that for sure, but that's how the info tracks.
Drew: Hey Jason, do you think Wil Crowe will stay in the bullpen, or switch back to the rotation later? Or a mix of both?
Jason Mackey: Right now I think Wil Crowe stays in the bullpen. He's been very good there. Although if their starters struggle, I could see him shifting back as well, assuming he continues to pitch well. But right now, I like him in the bullpen.
Robert J. Nutting: Greetings Non Billionaire. I cannot believe that these poor people are so up in arms about me not agreeing to pay this fellow from my Baseball company more money. Them say he's an "All Star" and an "MVP", whatever that means. I don't understand this athletic terms. Anyway non Billionaire, I wanted to let you all know that I've been spending all the hard stolen profits I've made from my Baseball company on something that really matters. Myself. You're welcome non Billionaire
Jason Mackey: I was forced to waste 30 seconds reading this, so I'm gonna do the same to you all.
Canyon: Were you expecting Hayes signing a extension or was this out of the blue?
Jason Mackey: I knew they were talking. I knew Hayes didn't shut down their last offer. That made me think. But did I expect this? No, that would be a lie. Especially not on opening day.
BVA123: I’m impressed with Nutting. He genuinely seems interested in this. Is there a chance that the Bucs sign Reynolds to a big time contract? 10-yrs/$100 mil??? Or if they don’t then this bridge deal wouldn’t be bad either.
Jason Mackey: I think there's a chance. Not sure if 10 years/$100 million is the deal, though. I was encouraged by hearing what I did about Bob, who, in my opinion, is doing this the right way. Should never have come to this.
Adam in Boulder: Hi Jason - Do you know the amount the Pirates have spent, roughly, on "enhancing" the ballpark instead of the major-league team this year? No one can argue the MLB roster isn't worse this year than last year, and in particular I'd like Nutting to explain why he'd spend - it seems - more on "enhancing" the ballpark than the difference between what Reynolds (#11 in MVP voting last year) requested in arbitration and what the Pirates want to pay.
Jason Mackey: I don't, Adam. I'm sorry. Don't know if we ever will, to be honest. Books obviously aren't open. They're not gonna publicize this. Maybe it comes out via publicly available documents -- which would take time -- but there's no guarantee.
marshall: Jason, will the Bucs be able to draw 1 million this year?
Jason Mackey: Yes, I think so.
Steven: Hey Jason, hope all is well. Two things: 1. I was super stoked with the Hayes deal and I’m really hopeful they get something done with Reynolds. I was going to ask you this week (had Hayes not signed) about a player us Pirates fans could get behind and follow because there seemed to be no sort of player stability (no one staying long term on the major league club besides the handful who had) but I’m happy that we have at least Hayes and most likely Bednar. 2. Are you and Mike bringing back the weekly Pirates podcasts? I loved those last season. All the best.
Jason Mackey: Glad you're happy about Hayes, Steven. And no, not as of now. Right now Buc'n Trends has become a newsletter while we revaluate the usefulness or legitimacy of our podcasts. Thank you for the kind words, though.
BVA123: Also I assume Hayes isn’t the only one getting extended either
Jason Mackey: Let's hope.
Karma: Yesterday went exactly as I planned. This season will be me paying back Bob Nutting for all the terrible things he has done. Sorry Pittsburgh your Baseball team is going to be losing for a very very long time
Jason Mackey: Hayes is fine. Troll somewhere else.
Bill: Hi Jason, Lets get ready to embark on another Bucco season! I'm personally very high on Swaggerty and think that if he has a strong few months at Indy we could see him here. What do you think?
Jason Mackey: Sure, if he has a strong view months. Haven't see a ton out of Swaggerty, but he also wasn't fully healthy, then went to minor league camp. But if he has a couple strong months, absolutely he would get a look.
Sam: Will be they be sellers or buyers at the trade deadline
Jason Mackey: Haha. Points for making me laugh on this one, Sam. Good stuff. Sellers.
piratesfan: In your opinion when will see Oneil Cruz and Roansy Contreras for good?
Jason Mackey: I'm gonna say Cruz around the end of April, Contreras the beginning of May.
Hopeless: They break the 1899 Cleveland Spiders record for losses in a season. They never finish above .500 again. Ever. Write it down. It's gonna happen. There is absolutely zero talent in this organization
Jason Mackey: Then why bother following if you're so damn negative? I don't get it.
Kyle: Do you have any information on Travis Swaggerty? I heard his name often a couple years ago, but haven’t heard much since.
Jason Mackey: Can you be a little more specific with what you're looking for? I've written a bunch about him. He's had shoulder issues, has tweaked his swing. Has added some pop. Needs to stay healthy and give himself a chance. A bunch of speed. Love his defense. Just gotta stay on the field.
Sam: why the change of heart in regards to a potential Reynolds extension?
Jason Mackey: I don't think it was sudden. I think it's just when it came out. Nutting wasn't happy when he found out they were taking Reynolds to arb. I think he trusted people to handle this, and he didn't like the result.
Sam: Do you think Pirates will add pitchers in free agency or trade in 2023 or 2024? Because right now the present looks incredibly bleak despite a Hayes extension and a potential Reynolds extension
Jason Mackey: Man, Sam, I'm just trying to get through this season. Ha. You're waaaaay down the road. It depends on what happens with a lot of guys here, a lot in Class AA. I mean, I'm sure they will add some, but that feels like decades away right now.
Bill: Endy Rodiguez move to 1B if Mason Martin doesnt pan out?
Jason Mackey: Potentially. I think he might be able to do more, though.
Bob's Burghers: If the Underwood Jr. injury turns out to be serious, who do you see getting DFA'd to open a spot on the 40-man?
Jason Mackey: Maybe Josh VanMeter. He hasn't done anything. Not sure that need what he does at this point. And, yeah, it sounds not minor with Duane.
Sam: When do you think pitching becomes great again for the Pirates? 2024/25?
Jason Mackey: I can see it getting better in the second half of 2023, when some of the guys I mentioned come up.
Garrett: When do they call Cruz up?
Jason Mackey: After the 20-day period that preserves his extra year of control.
Bucs23: When you say they aren’t close with reynolds, what are you hearing that he would want in an extension and what the pirates are offering?
Jason Mackey: If I knew exact amounts, I would report them. I'm sorry. But both sides have acknowledged that they're not terribly close.
Hunter: Hey Jason. Appreciate all the work you do for us!! Any thoughts on brubakers start yesterday? Wil Crowe had a solid 2 innings in relief!
Jason Mackey: It was three innings. He struggled with walks. Another home run. It was also a windy day. Not sure I'm going to draw many conclusions from it.
Daniel Sametz: Hi Jason,
I hope you're great!
The Reynolds and Nutting thing you posted is weird.
Why would they decide to go to arbitration then later the owner comes and says that? What do you read of this?
Jason Mackey: "The Reynolds and Nutting thing you posted is weird." ... The greatest comment to hours of work that I could ever receive. Anyway ... they didn't have the hearing yet. They didn't go to anything. He was going to be arbitration eligible all along.
Wayward: I know it is hard to project what injuries may happen but which of the younger guys do you forsee being in the lineup in July?
Jason Mackey: Wayward, the way Shelton rolls, I'm not sure I know who's gonna be in the lineup Saturday. I'll try, though: I think Cruz will be here by then. Maybe Castro. Maybe Martin. Maybe Smith-Njigba or Swaggerty. Depends on who hits.
Mark: Jason, how does arbitration work with the salary not being set and games beginning. Does a guy like Reynolds get paid the lower of the two offers, and then if he wins gets catch up pay at a later date?
Jason Mackey: They get the team amount and settle up at a later date if Reynolds wins.
Adam in Boulder: I get that the Pirates are not investing $100 million in the MLB roster this year even if the money is there, because the young players are not ready to compete like the Cubs' young players were in 2016. However, even as a small-budget team, why are the fundamentals so freaking bad? Yesterday was an embarrassment. The Athletics, for instance, don't spend but it's clear whoever is on their major-league roster has been taught to play the game right and is expected to do so.
Jason Mackey: They were arguably the best defensive team in the majors last season. They also improved their baserunning. I'm not sure of the fundamental issues you're talking about. I mean, they need to throw more strikes, certainly. Their lineup doesn't have a ton of power. But fundamentally, I'm not I understand the criticism.
Sam: I think the major problem that is plaguing baseball is the fact rebuilds take forever in a modern world that has no patience
Jason Mackey: I don't disagree. Tickets cost a lot of money. Fans want to see winning baseball. There's nothing wrong with feeling that way.
Count on it: I don't think they win a game this month. They don't score a run in St Louis and the Penguins finish with more wins than the Pirates this season.
Jason Mackey: For crying out loud ...
marshall: Jason, I think a lot of the seats at PNC Park are not going to have a story this year.
Jason Mackey: I feel bad for those seats.
timk: I understand the Pirates are in a rebuilding process but the opening day roster they put together is an insult to any educated fan. There has to be a medium between a rebuild and a respectable roster. Based on your prior comments I think you have been drinking the Nutting Kool-Aid
Jason Mackey: My prior comments? Like when I said they should spend more on major league payroll? Which I repeat every week on here.
Adam in Boulder: In hindsight, the Adam Frazier trade looks good so far. He was having the season of his life and came back down to his norm after the trade, and the Pirates got a bunch of prospects in return. My question is, since Tucupita already has a cup of coffee in the majors, when will we see him in Pittsburgh? The glimpses we got of him in Bradenton looked promising.
Jason Mackey: Yeah, they want to see more development from him. I think he could wind up on the Rodolfo Castro plan, where he jumps from Class AA to the big leagues. But I think they just need to see more out of him to start the minor league season.
Herman: Have you developed any physical or psychological ailments having to cover the Pirates?
Jason Mackey: I have not, no. Perfectly healthy.
Sam: I think the problem plaguing baseball is that fans in general have very little patience for rebuilding in today’s world. I would hope something would fix this in the next CBA. Do you see both sides pursuing this issue when the next CBA comes?
Jason Mackey: I don't, sadly. They had a chance to fix it in this past one. I think the way you prevent some of it is by instituting a floor and a cap. But again, like we saw, there's doesn't seem to be an appetite for that.
Bob's Burghers: Having a consistent everyday lineup would be nice. Vogelbaçh leading off and Newman batting 5th isn't what I had in mind. Chances we see 30 different lineups in the first 30 games?
Jason Mackey: Very good. Shelton doesn't seem like one for consistent lineups. Hasn't been that way yet.
BAD ALL AROUND: I was talking with a friend in Arizona about this franchise and how it is utterly incapable of doing anything right in personal moves, marketing, public relations and everything else, and tried to make a comparison to another franchise in another pro sports league that has the same issues and couldn't think of one. Would you agree with me that this organization is the worst run in pro sports period and is completely unable to do even the basic things correctly ?
Jason Mackey: No, I would not. Mainly because I don't have an accurate picture of every pro sports franchise. So saying something like that would be inaccurate. The team also signed a guy to an eight-year, $70 million extension yesterday, and you're still mad.
Wayward: Does this Vogelbach leadoff thing last or do you see a more conventional leadoff guy and who would it be?
Jason Mackey: I don't think it will last.
Guest: Did you get Dead & Co tix?
Jason Mackey: I didn't. And thank you so much for the question. Seriously. I struggle to get into them. Have any recs on how? Stuff to sample? jmackey@post-gazette.com.
Coach O: I asked about this two weeks ago and it really bugs me that Nutting refused requests to meet with the media at spring training. Did he not want to discuss why he voted yes for CBA or the Reynolds situation? Speaking to the media is the vehicle to talk to the fans. I think it stinks and is insulting to fans. Am I overreacting?
Jason Mackey: I don't think you're overreacting. He should talk. I have a feeling we'll get him next week when they announce the Hayes extension.
Guest: i was wondering how it works for reynolds as far as his salary goes. Does he get paid the lower amount, and then should he win/an extension gets reached, would he just get “catch up” pay?
Jason Mackey: He gets the team amount, then they settle up if he wins.
Frank89: I've been a big supporter of the pirates all my life. Also, I think they are on the right track with the development of the minors. Looking forward to 2024. However, after watching yesterday and seeing the major league team in real time, is 120 losses not completely out of question? Its like denial all offseason until yesterday. Thanks Jason!
Jason Mackey: You can't make an assessment for a season based off one game. I understand things might be tough this year. Not saying they're gonna be great. But don't react to one game.
Bob's Burghers: A good reminder for your guests, it's Bryan Reynolds.
Jason Mackey: Thanks, Bob.
Beavis: Uh.....huh huh, do you think the Pirates will win a 3-game series this year?
Jason Mackey: I do, actually, yes.
Ryan: Since The Pirates are hoping to avoid arbitration with Reynolds, do you see Reynolds and the Pirates getting a long term deal done this season?
Jason Mackey: Not this season. They're far apart. Maybe -- maybe -- next, but I still have my doubts on a long-term extension.
Drum Dad: Do you think Shelton will stick with a set lineup or will he run different combinations out there each day? He has 10 guys who play multiple positions and I know a lot of the goal this year is reps to see what they can do. Tough to get continuity when the double play combo is different every day.
Jason Mackey: Oh, definitely the latter. Lineup will be fluid. I don't think Shelton could make out the same lineup for four games in a row if he tried.
Curious: What does the manager bring to the table? What are his strengths? It appears he has no pedigree or charisma like Hurdle did. Thank you. Have a good year covering them.
Jason Mackey: I think Shelton is different than Hurdle in a lot of ways, and this is one. I think Clint was at his best in ways people could see -- big personality, great talker, motivator, that whole thing. Put him at a banquet, he's gonna shine. Shelton is different. I think if a player needed to talk, Shelton would be great in that setting. He's positive with his guys. I think he's kept things not down or negativity in a situation where it would be easy to get negative. I think his personality is much more low-key. He doesn't shine in those super social settings.
Canyon: Are the pirates going to have press conference for the signing on Tuesday?
Jason Mackey: That's my expectation, yes.
Matty the Delt: Is the reason for the Reynolds lack of contract extension a belief in the outfield depth in the upper minors?
Jason Mackey: No. Not at all. I think it's just a different valuation on the player. I think they would like to sign him. I just think how they see his value and how his agents see his value doesn't match up right now.
Daniel Sametz: Why would the Pirates go to arbitration with Reynolds and then the owner says that he doesn't want that? Isn't that a little weird? What's your take on that one?
Jason Mackey: They haven't done to arbitration with Reynolds. They filed figures. The hearing itself has not yet happened.
Adam in Boulder: We need your expert opinion on this: If the current AAA Indianapolis roster and the current Pirates roster played a seven-game series, who would win?
Jason Mackey: The current roster.
Nick: Do you have any idea what Reynolds is being paid right now, seeing as he doesn't actually have a contract? At what rate, I mean, until he does have one? Minimum? The inbetween of the submissions?
Jason Mackey: He's being paid the team rate -- $4.25 million.
David - central Illinois: Hi Jason - really enjoy these chats! I've been a Pirates fan for 50+ years- yes, its been brutal and I'm sick of Nutting not making any investments in the team. However, I am more excited for this year's team, especially the pitching staff, to see who is a part of the future. My question is who do you see from AA rotation making the 2023 opening day roster? I see several of them making jump to AAA and possibly the major leagues for a spot start. Interested in your thoughts from time spent at Bradenton.
Jason Mackey: Hard to predict, David. Because we need a season full of results and to see who's healthy. Honestly, though, maybe nobody. I could see a lot of those guys being in AAA in 2023, and there's nothing wrong with that. Priester would be my pick for the one who might surprise, but I wouldn't rush it.
Doug Strange: Who do you see playing OF at PNC Park first, Ji-Hwan Bae or Travis Swaggerty?
Jason Mackey: I'll go with Swaggerty.
AAA: Can the Yankees AAA team beat the Pirates MLB team?
Jason Mackey: No, I don't think so.
Rob in St. Louis: Robert Nutting isn't going to consistently invest in that team. The franchise got used to losing. That proceeded his family gaining control. The fan base withered. So from a business standpoint, the Pirates can run low payrolls for long stretches and collect huge profits while "rebuilding with youth." That might lead to a few good years, but another selloff/rebuild will likely follow. That is a business model many of the less-ambitious teams follow.
Jason Mackey: Thanks for the comments, Rob. Certainly understand where you're coming from. I don't agree with you, but you're entitled to your opinion.
Tom: I would have preferred that they sign Reynolds. He is a proven star. Hayes has a great glove but at present his bat is unknown and he seems to be fragile. He is hurt -- a lot. This signing seems more like the Kendall thing -- let's try to convince the fans we are committed and that they have a star worth watching. I'm not yet convinced that is true.
Jason Mackey: Feel however you want, Tom. I don't think the door is closed on signing Reynolds, for one. Two, I think we've had one day with this contract in play. Not sure it's fair to make a determination on how it fits into franchise history.
LJG: I’m anxious to see Mitch Keller pitch this year. Do you think he would be a part of the future or trade bait with the hype about the minor league pitchers down the road
Jason Mackey: I think this is gonna be the year Mitch finally figures it out.
Guest: You think Cruz will be up by Saturday? What’s the point of sending him down then?
Jason Mackey: I don't think he will be up by Saturday, no. I think you're looking at 20-plus days or maybe just around a month before you see him. But I do think they want to preserve the year of control on the back end.
Doug Strange: Ji-Hwan Bae will be leadoff hitter and LF by end of May for your Bucs. What say you?
Jason Mackey: I don't think so.
Bucs24: In my own opinion I think Reynolds signs a bridge deal. Thoughts?
Jason Mackey: I think he's gonna sign for two years and avoid a hearing. I don't know if I would call that a bridge deal. Maybe it is.
Luke: Do you think Nutting is feeling the heat from fans? Could that have played into signing Hayes and your article about wanting to keep Reynolds?
Jason Mackey: You could maybe describe it that way. I just think he gets how it looks and doesn't like it. That's all. Fans are part of that, as I explained.
Daniel Sametz: I didn't mean it like that, sorry. I mean the situation is weird, not your work.
Jason Mackey: Ha. It's all good. Just trying to have some fun.
Guest: Assuming they don’t add meaningful free agents in the next 2 years, is it reasonable to think they will be competitive before the 2024 season? The majority of their high upside players are in AA, and it seems overly optimistic to expect all (or even most) of the younger players to contribute immediately when they get to the show.
Jason Mackey: I think you will start to see them turn a corner in 2023. Seriously. You'll have a greater influx of prospects with the major league club, plus the maturity of those you could see this year.
Befuddled: What did commenter Ryan say that you agreed with?
Jason Mackey: That Reynolds will lead in home runs, Keller in wins and strikeotus.
Jason Mackey: strikeouts
Nelson: How far away are the group from Greensboro. They were awfully good last year?
Jason Mackey: They're mostly at Altoona, so I would put the arrival date around the middle of next season for the first to maybe early a chance.
Likeafullstadium: Will they bring out the cardboard fans this tear?
Jason Mackey: No, I don't think so.
Rob in St. Louis: They were arguably the best defensive team in the majors last season? You had a Gold Glove catcher (who is gone now). The Cardinals had 5 Gold Glove players. Arguably, we were the best defensive team in the majors.
Jason Mackey: True. Pirates also led in errors and fielding percentage. So ... you could make either case. Wasn't trying to start a fielding war, Rob.
Improvetheroster: Elroy Face is still alive. What are the chances of the Pirates signing him?
Jason Mackey: Can he throw 95 mph? Maybe he still can. Wouldn't put anything past ElRoy.
Grant: Why so much hate all around for Vogelbach at leadoff? Just because he doesn't "look" like one doesn't mean he can't be one. He gets on base, which is the most important skill for a leadoff hitter.
Jason Mackey: I hear that. I think it's overcooking things on a few levels. I'm against it because I just don't think he likes it.
Mike: Out of the Pirates prospects that were ranked in the top 100, which will make it to the big leagues this year?
Jason Mackey: Cruz and Contreras.
Derrick Plapton: Seems like today's Reynolds story was a bit of damage control. How, as a reporter, do you balance that -- one one hand, you know you're kind of being spun (because why would they negotiate a two-year deal in public like that?) but on the other hand, its an extremely newsworthy topic for Pirates fans (and FWIW I think you did a good job of balancing the Nutting spin while also providing helpful background context). What is your personal evaluation process with these kind of off-the-record stories from sources, agents, etc.?
Jason Mackey: That's something I found on my own. They didn't come to me with anything. Obviously people helped confirm what I had, but it was not damage control, which is why I tweeted what I did.
Tanney: I've been watching the Pirates on TV, radio and in person since the old Knothole Gang of the 1950s. I used to love going to double headers and be in/out of Forbes Field in less than 4 hours...including intermission between games. Now I can not watch baseball....it is too long and too boring. One game can last close to four hours. Please give me three things baseball could change that will shorten game to 2 1/2 hours. How about fewer but more expensive commercials (less time between innings), pitching clock of 15 seconds, and 7 inning games. Your thoughts?
Jason Mackey: How about enforcing time in the box and time to the plate? That could be part of a pitch clock. Fewer commercials wouldn't hurt. I would trade commercials for on-field advertising. And, yeah, I also wouldn't complain about 7-inning games. Some people might turn up their noses at that, but honestly, with pitcher arm injuries, trying to stay relevant, etc., I would be OK with it. Will never, ever happen, but I wouldn't complain if it somehow did.
Mark: Hoping you may be able to shed some light on the reason why Mgr. Shelton batted the 250lb Vogelbach 1st in yesterday's lineup as the DH? Makes not much sense to this laymen....please do tell.
Jason Mackey: He gets on base. Had .360-something OBP in Milwaukee. I don't love it, but that's the basis of his reasoning.
GlennC: After the teardown in Oakland and the Reds' jettisoning salaries it is obvious that a salary floor is needed. I hope the Pirates stop signing pitchers in their mid to late 20's with ERA's in the mid fives and bring up their own prospects, sink or swim.
Jason Mackey: You have to be careful, Glenn. Have to make sure they're ready. Not doing them any good if they come up and get shelled.
Shouldiswitch: I've been a Pirate fan since 1955. Obviously I'm near the end of my allegiance. Should I root for another team when I'm reincarnated?
Jason Mackey: There are many other things I'd want to do aside from rooting for a baseball team if I was reincarnated.
Mike: Why would Nutting suddenly be concerned about public perception now ? Did he just start paying attention ?
Jason Mackey: I think he trusted his people to handle arb with Reynolds a certain way. They didn't. And now he's trying to fix it. He wouldn't be the first big boss to which that statement applies.
Mike in MD: I was thrilled that they were able to sign Hayes. If they can avoid arbitration with Reynolds, I will start to feel much better about the Front Office's intentions for the future.
Jason Mackey: Thanks for the comments, Mike.
Mike: Will Yajure get a chance to start at some point this
Jason Mackey: I think he's gonna start as a piggyback, but yeah, I do see him making starts at some point. His arsenal intrigues me, as I said earlier. Lot of good stuff there.
Jaden: Thoughts on why Mitch Keller did bad the past few years
Jason Mackey: A bunch, yeah. Didn't command his fastball. Didn't execute breaking stuff ahead in counts. Put too much pressure on himself, worrying about what everyone thought. Question his ability. There's a lot there, but I think he's past it and has looked good this spring.
Jeff: Thanks for the chats Jason. I truly respect your insights but have to push you on just one. I get this team sucks but our announcers are painful!! We cant get anyone that knows ball and is a little more entertaining? Especially now when the product is far from entertaining!
Jason Mackey: I'm a big fan of the Pirates announcers, as I've said a lot. You feel how you want. But they're great guys, well-prepared and knowledgable, and I happen to learn a lot from broadcasts. I don't understand the crap they take on here. It's not fair.
Jason Mackey: OK, folks. That does it for me today. Long one. Have some other stuff to get to. As always, thank you for participating. Talk to you tomorrow from the ballpark!
First Published: April 8, 2022, 2:23 p.m.
