Jason Mackey: Hey everyone. Thanks for stopping by my Pirates chat. We'll get started here in a few minutes.
Cullen: Congrats on your Pennsylvania journalism award last week, Jason! If Jared Jones continues to pitch lights out could he get a call up ahead of Priester? Ben Cherington has had players make the jump from AA to the bigs before!
Jason Mackey: Hi Cullen. Thank you very much for that. Jones has been fantastic. I like him a lot as a pitching prospect. And I don't know about who arrives first. Depends on Quinn, too. He's been about 75% up, 25% down. I think it's probably unlikely that Jones beats Quinn up here given what I know about both, but you never know. Also think they would wanna have Jones pitch at Triple-A before doing anything as well.
Cullen: Any more word on a Keller extension? Any chance 6 years 75 Million gets it done?
Jason Mackey: Not a peep on the Keller extension. Doesn't mean it's bad. They didn't love how much Reynolds ended up in the public eye, so my sense is that this will happen out of nowhere. I think that's a fairly friendly number, though. Wouldn't shock me if that got it done.
Thomas: Any update on the timeline for Cruz's return? Late July maybe? Speaking of Crews, what's the chance they dont draft the LSU OF?
Jason Mackey: No update -- as in nothing has changed. And, no, not late July. Mid-August. ... I can't put a percentage on it, but sure, there's a chance. Don't think it would be dumb, either. Paul Skenes from LSU is legit. Has been called the best college pitching prospect since Cole or Strasburg. Would be hard to crush 'em for going with the guy who throws 100 mph, has a great makeup and has been dominating college ball. Wyatt Langford is also believed by some evaluators to be close to Crews.
Cullen: Have you heard anything about which way the Pirates are leaning toward in the 2023 MLB draft? Surely we have to go with Crews right?
Jason Mackey: Just an FYI, because I'm sure I'm gonna get asked a version of this question 4,956 times before the draft: That's not quite how things work. There's not really a sense on which way they're leaning because things can and will change. It involves discussions on contract asks. Seasons are ongoing. This year, there are five very good players. I don't think it's a foregone conclusion they go with Crews, though, no.
PrinceBob: I'm not sure if this is up your alley or not but I can't think of any place else to ask. I'm in Massachusetts and watch the Pirates on MLBtv so the only times I can't watch them is when they play the Red Sox. But we've recently ditched cable at the old family homestead in Johnstown which means they'll be blacked out on MLBtv if I visit there. The question is if there's some sort of auxiliary, temporary, thing I can buy for times when I'm there so I can watch them. I'm guessing no but don't want to assume.
Jason Mackey: Sadly, no. And this is a flaw in the MLB.TV setup. You can't stream games in-market. So dumb. Some visiting feeds are streamable, but my guess is you'd probably need a subscription. ... You might be able to stream them if you're in a house with Fios and it's connected to the same router.
Joel: Hi, Jason. Thanks for scheduling a chat today. I am going to try to respond to your Ke’Bryan Hayes article in a constructive way. For me there are two reasons for my concern/frustration with Hayes: 1) Given his defense, if he just hits .260 with 20 HRs he’s an all-star; this seems attainable given his physical tools; 2) I can’t help but think that another organization with a proven record of molding talent —- think Dodgers, Rays, Cardinals, Astros —- would have Hayes in a better place by now. So I’m frustrated, especially in the light of the long-term financial commitment.
Jason Mackey: Hi Joel, thanks for stopping by. I think 20 homers for Hayes is a big ask. Also think he's capable of hitting for more average than .260. Whether or not it's on the Pirates ... man, I don't know. I have the utmost respect for the organizations you mentioned. I also think the Pirates have figured some things out with guys -- Keller, Quintana, Stallings, Tyler Anderson ... some youngsters like Suwinski, Castro and Bae look decent. Think it's tough to give a blanket THEY CAN'T DEVELOP based on what Hayes has done: great average exit velocity and hard-hard percentage, doesn't chase, low BABIP and traditional numbers that aren't great.
Joel: Jason, please tell me that this Ortiz slump isn’t the result of the Pirates trying to tame his stuff or turn him into a Ray Searage pitch to contact guy. What happened to the guy who blew away the Yankees at Yankee Stadium last September? The Bucs pitching is too thin for Ortiz to regress.
Jason Mackey: I don't see that, no. I see a guy who has been tentative with his mechanics. Something to remember with young pitchers: This isn't a video game, and they don't automatically throw hard just because they've previously thrown hard. If they're having trouble with their command -- which Ortiz has -- they might take a little off to ensure accuracy and try to not blow it. They also might be unsure of themselves. Related: Sometimes the Searage Way made sense. The issue with what the Pirates became was not that strategy but more adopted it as a boilerplate.
Guest: Does MLB have any current knuckleball pitchers? Not knuckle curves either,true knuckleballer? Seems like with the increase in off speed pitches trending league wide it would be a good idea. ?Think some kid with average athletic ability would seize the opportunity? Tim Wakefield came out of nowhere and got us into the playoffs, we need another like him. What says you?
Jason Mackey: Not that I know of, no. Mickey Jannis hasn't played in a couple years. Same for Steven Wright, who was in Triple-A with the Pirates a couple years back. Pirates do have one at Double-A in Matt Eckelman, but he's currently on the development list.
PrinceBob: In no way am I suggesting the Pirates should have fired Derek Shelton. He deserves a chance to show what he can do with some decent players. But the extension to me seemed premature as well. Why the rush? It's not like another team was going to offer him huge money to manage them.
Jason Mackey: I agree. I thought it earlier than it had to be. That said, if the Pirates decided to extend Shelton after a 32-29, would you have questioned it? Maybe ... but that's because you'd say, "Well, they went 20-8, and they're 12-21 since then. It's front-loaded!" I get that. At the same time, it still happened, and they're still three games over. I understand you could want to wait until later in the season, but I still think this is a 74-76-win team, and assuming they do that, I'm OK sticking with Shelton.
Chief Powhatan: Do you feel the mediocre NL Central gives the Pirates their best chance of hanging in the race possibly adding at the trade deadline?
Jason Mackey: I do. Nobody in the division blows me away. The Cardinals might stink. I wouldn't be shocked at all if they hung around. Doesn't necessarily mean they're a good team. But they could hang around.
Munkeefist: Any word on the Pirates being interested in Zach Plesac who was recently DFA'd by Cleveland? Seems like a no-brainer with the depth issues they are currently experiencing. Thanks for the chat!!
Jason Mackey: Have not heard any word of interest, but I might not hate the move. They need arms. They've helped guys who've previously been productive find themselves. They have someone who knows Plesac well in Hedges. Would make a lot of sense.
Codger: Hey, Jason - always look forward to your chats. Given the atrocious performances recently of both the hitters w/RISP and most of the starting pitching, do you think there will ever be a time when ownership/management would consider hiring hitting and/or pitching coaches who actually had, you know, actual major league playing careers? Not talking about a cup of coffee careers, but guys who actually had success playing at the MLB level.
Jason Mackey: Oh, dear. This one belongs in a drinking game. Codger: Think about major league coaches for a second. How many translate their on-field success as players to coaching roles? Doesn't really work that way. Jim Leyland was a genius as a manager. Sucked as a player. The two don't always link up. I think the players need to perform better. What has happened with this team isn't a coaching or lack of coaching issue, IMO.
Chief Powhatan: Would you want to add some arms from AAA or AA to the present roster with the injuries adding up?
Jason Mackey: Minor ones at the moment. Not sure there's anything huge they can do. Carmen Mlodzinski has been good. Might take a look there. I've liked Perdomo. Starter-wise, who we talking? Quinn's not ready. Bido isn't a big name. Not gonna dip down to Double-A for this. Cam Alldred? I mean, we're in the weeds here.
Mild Bill: Now that we're 1/3 of the way thru the season how do you feel about the schedule including all the teams in both leagues ? Personally, I would prefer more games against division opponents and just a few crossover games with American League teams like in the past.
Jason Mackey: I agree, Bill. Asked Shelton about this the other day. It's not enough division games, IMO. I think they need to figure out how to go three series against each division foe both home and away -- same as before. Whatever else you have to do to fill it out, fine. Maybe it's random and you don't play every AL team every year. Maybe there's one division among the other five you skip. Not sure how to handle the math, but I do know they're not playing the division enough.
Rich Loiselle Fan Club: The obvious solution to the Pirates rotation problems is to convince former Westminster great Jason Mackey to come out of retirement. But assuming he's decided to stick to this writing thing, what do you think about swinging a trade for a veteran on a AAA roster for another franchise that is not on the 40 man? I'll throw out Touki Toussaint. He's not on Cleveland's 40 man, so the cost shouldn't be too much. Was a good prospect at one point, and has pitched ok in AAA this year.
Jason Mackey: Hahaha. Nobody needs to watch Jason Mackey come out of pitching retirement, unless it's to throw batting practice. ... I love the idea, Rich. I would gladly give up something minor to get some fringe pitching and try to do what they've done with Velasquez, Quintana and Anderson. They have a blueprint. Not sure why it isn't being employed here.
tmartin8757@yahoo.com: Hey Jason, Appreciate your efforts on behalf of our Battling Buccos. While the team has shown some improvements, it does appear that we are a bit shorthanded in starting pitching. Any chance to Cherington trading middle infield depth and OF for a starting pitcher like ChiSox Mike Kopech? Beat'em Bucs!
Jason Mackey: We're just throwing random names here, folks. I don't see any possible way they trade for Kopech. However, could they get someone who has struggled and try to fix him? I wouldn't rule that out, although I can't give you names they're batting around or anything like that.
epiballo: An article appeared on P-G assessing the state of Pirate pitching, and the conclusion (in my words) was that the staff has imploded with no available solutions. It was stunning. I doubt they will trade for a veteran pitcher; is there a bullpen pitcher that could step up and be given a start or two? Some timely hitting with runners in scoring position would help ...
Jason Mackey: There's generally a pretty definitive line between starting and relief, so my answer to that part would be no. You wanna get a start who can help. Those options, as we've been over, include Priester, maybe Bido and not a ton else. They might try to find a creative solution, but the pitching depth is relatively thin.
Chief Powhatan: Dylan Crews in a Pirates uniform for years to come sounds good to me. What's your take on who goes #1?
Jason Mackey: Have been over this a ton. I can't argue with Crews. I'm also highly intrigued by Skenes. I wouldn't go outside of those two. I think if Skenes truly blew me away, I'd probably draft him. But it has to be good beyond a shadow of a doubt. If there's any questioning it, how can you pass up on Crews?
Johnny M: Good afternoon Jason. The Pirates continue to hold their own in a weak NL Central so far. Right now, who do you think will/can be called up soon? Esp pitching, they need some fresh arms up here. And are they buyers or sellers by the Deadline if they continue on this path? They could use a power bat (for next year, too). And yes I know Choi & Cruz are coming back.
Jason Mackey: I don't think any callups are imminent, Johnny. I mean, maybe a pitcher to replace Chase De Jong, but I'm not sure that's what you're talking about here. Henry, Endy, Nick G., tough to see at the moment. And if they continue on this path, I mean, that puts them a game or two out of first. I don't think they'll do some massive move, but standing pat could easily happen.
Shepherdstown, WVnsider: Seriously, is Austin Hedges’ defense worth the automatic out he is when at bat. I see little difference in Delay’s and his defense but I’m a nobody. But should not Delay be playing more due to a better stick? And when Endy and Davis make the club, does Delay stay? I’m assuming Hedges does not get a second contract despite his defense his 0.179 BA does not warrant it.
Jason Mackey: I don't think Hedges gets a second contract, no. But that should be because they've transitioned to others. I think Hedges' defense warrants what they're doing with him, personally. Have no issue there, and I said before the season, I don't care if he hits .110. I mean, I'd like more offensive, obviously, but people are acting surprised that he can't hit. Why? What about his signing led you to believe that he would contribute offensively?
Stash: Jason, the disastrous pitching turn of events ensure that we take the pitching stud, yes? Gracias.
Jason Mackey: You don't pick in the MLB draft based on MLB need. That one is easy.
Gino: Hey Jason. While obviously glad when a Pirate hits a home run, I’m not crazy about the ensuing dugout celebration with the jacket donning and saber waving. I find them to rather show-offish and juvenile. Without naming names, are there any Pirates who do not go along with these home run celebrations? Thanks.
Jason Mackey: The fun police has infiltrated this chat. Damnit.
D. Mountain: Jason, does a 43 year old soft serve artist get too much ink in this formerly and currently smoky city? Danke.
Jason Mackey: Guessing you're talking about my Rich Hill piece this morning. He's the oldest pitcher in baseball. I thought a piece wrapped around that mindset might be fun. He's also an interesting thinker/talker. I enjoy our conversation. I guess you did not. Will try and do better next time.
DrBobbyE: I truly understand the Super 2 rule and financial considerations but at some point BC has to concede that Endy, Henry and some young arms will help this team win and possibly make playoffs, time to cut bait on some dead weight, thoughts, thanks.
Jason Mackey: "Cut bait on some dead weight." ... Why? You know they still have to pay the dead weight, right? Also, I like Henry a lot and think he will be a big-time contributor in the not-too-distant future: He's hitting .213 over his last 13. Endy is hitting .261 over his last 16. Not sure they're committing any crimes by continuing development.
Jerry: Jason, has this thing with the “your body is a wonderland guy” mercifully run it’s strange and forgettable course? Gracias.
Jason Mackey: I've actually been getting more into Dead & Co. of late. I'm sorry I missed the show, though not sorry I missed the traffic.
Dallas: why bring up Mark Mathias/Owings of the world when you can bring up Triolo who has more versatility and better defense? Unless they want to get him more at bats bc of his injury?
Jason Mackey: You nailed it.
Not Fidel: Jason, I should give up the crazy switch hitting dream, yes? Gracias.
Jason Mackey: Rudy ... I think so. I'd like to see what you could do hitting right-handed all the time.
Donna: Hi Jason, good afternoon. I’ve noticed some batters looking back after striking out. Do you know if they are looking back at the pitcher or the park big screen to see a replay of their strikeout? Perhaps both? Thank you.
Jason Mackey: Probably depends Donna. Some might want to see the pitch; however, that probably only happens in road parks. Could just be a look of disgust. I never really noticed who's doing it.
Mitchy K: Jason, little blip along life’s journey or full blown panic time? Gracias.
Jason Mackey: Little blip along life's journey.
Yuri: Hello Jason. Any idea if the Pirates still have high hopes for Peguero? It seems he has been lost or forgotten when talking about their minor league prospects. Thank you Jason.
Jason Mackey: Hi, Yuri. Yeah, there's still something there. He's been hit and miss with Altoona. Did think it was a little strange they traded for a Tampa shortstop (Alika Williams) then quickly promoted him to Triple-A. Seems he jumped ahead of Peguero real fast. But you do hear positive stuff about Peguero. He's made some strides this year with the bats.
Hank: What do you think the plan for the rotation moving forward is? I didn't understand the preplanned move to start Ro and then go to Ortiz. Do you know why they went that route?
Jason Mackey: Because Ortiz had his last start cut short (rain delay). I think they'll probably go with four and leverage off-days until they absolutely need a fifth, which could come in Milwaukee. Also wouldn't shock me if they tried to pull off a bullpen game in there.
Ryan: Good afternoon Jason at this point who represents the pirates at the all star game my guess is Keller and Bednar
Jason Mackey: Bednar is a lock. And assuming the recent trend doesn't continue, I'd go Keller as well.
Guest: Do you have any info or updates on Lonnie White?
Jason Mackey: Todd Tomczyk was moved to today, so check back at post-gazette.com around 5:30-6 p.m. for an update in that file.
Hal: Any news on Roansy moving to the bullpen or somewhere else out of the rotation?
Jason Mackey: No news, per se. But I expect it to happen. I think you will see him pitch out of the bullpen before you do the rotation.
Beane Billy: Jason, is my team’s performance going to lessen the Moneyball reruns on cable? Gracias.
Jason Mackey: Can never have too many Moneyball reruns.
Brad S.: Hey Jason, big fan and love the chats. Where does the farm system stand today compared to the start of the season/offseason? Some guys have seemed to struggle/fall in rankings (Gonzales, Priester, Johnson) while others like Harrington and Jones have taken big steps
Jason Mackey: I don't see many seismic changes, Brad. I'd add Massey, Solometo, Jones and a few others to your changes. Could add Chandler and a few others to the negative side. But all in all, I don't see much changing them from the 8-10 range.
Hal: Jason, will AI replace the General Manager function in the foreseeable future? Danke.
Jason Mackey: Ummm, no.
John: The Pirates need better development people to help develop the core of young players. Do you think they have addressed this issue
Jason Mackey: I do. I actually think they've done a lot of really good stuff with player development. I don't think what we're seeing lately is because they stink at player development or something like that. Far from it.
EvanMeek: I am delighted by how Jose Hernandez is pitching. Do you think they will use him more as the season progresses?
Jason Mackey: Speaking of not thinking player development is terrible ... yeah, I've liked Hernandez as well. And I do. I think he is earning a larger role. He has been, frankly. He's among their four best relievers at the moment, I would argue.
Hank: On your podcast Brown mentioned Boras clients being a factor in the draft day decision making. Do you think the Pirates think that way? Is it a factor with the Endy and Henry everyday catcher decision making(I think Endy is a Boras client)?
Jason Mackey: No, it's not a factor with that stuff. I also don't think Boras reps Endy, but I'll check.
Tim: Only using players currently in the Pirates organization, what is the Pirates starting lineup in 2025? I know that is not realistic because there will be additions and subtractions, but it serves to see how the current players are evaluated.
Jason Mackey: FYI, it's Boras Corp., but likely not Scott on Endy.
Jason Mackey: I’ll go (this is not a batting order)
C Davis
3B Hayes
SS Cruz
2B Castro
1B Rodriguez
LF Reynolds
CF Bae
RF Suwinski
Drew: Hi Jason...I know in the major league portion of the rule 5 draft the player selected has to remain on the big league roster for the entire season or be offered back to the original club, but what are the stipulations on players taken in the minor league portion of the rule 5 draft? Do they need to stay on the Triple A roster the whole season?
Jason Mackey: They do not, Drew.
Will: Won’t hold you to it, but what date on the calendar do you predict we see Endy/Henry debut for the Pirates?
Jason Mackey: I think we're still a couple weeks away, Will. End of June? Early July? Somewhere in there.
Henry D: Jason, I get called up prior to my buddy Endy, correct? Does this organization realize I’ve hit everywhere I’ve been? And framing is overrated. The umps are so bad it’s moot. Gracias.
Jason Mackey: I don't think we know, Henry. Think it's going to depend on who performs better at the plate and shows more maturity behind the plate.
J Mayer: Jason, think Robert H. regrets that he did not pen Your Body is a Wonderland?
Jason Mackey: I don't think he does, no.
Kolman: Preister looks like a good choice
Jason Mackey: For the current rotation? I like Quinn a lot. Think he's gonna be really good. That strikes me as doing something out of need version a prospect forcing his way.
Pigpen: Jason, you don’t hear enough Alligator. Your thoughts?
Jason Mackey: Definitely underrated.
Chief Powhatan: Have you paid much attention to the NBA or NHL finals?
Jason Mackey: Barely. Baseball affords no time for such things.
Ed: Do you see swaggerty getting cut soon if he doesn’t improve his production rather soon?
Jason Mackey: I don't, Ed. Why? He's dealing with some personal stuff. What are they accomplishing by cutting him?
Bill Carson: Jason, I'm just waiting until Training Camp. In your opinion, will The Pirates still be relevant July 26? I fear The Cardinals will make their move.
Jason Mackey: They'll be relevant for me. I do think they could hang around the division race. The Central has not been good. I don't see anyone who's gonna run away with this thing.
Ed: Now the pirates have signed Hayes and Reynolds to notable deals, do you think they have the capital to sign Cruz, keller and bednar long term? Will they have to pick and choose for that reason?
Jason Mackey: I don't know about all of them, but it wouldn't shock me if they did two of three. And I think you see Keller get done this season.
epiballo: A debate broke out from your article on Hayes, some finding it outrageous to compare his first three years to those of Roberto Clemente ... others finding is a fair comparison. I think the indignation stemmed from a belief that Hayes will never come close to Clemente's career. Fair or foul comparison in your opinion?
Jason Mackey: Note: 'Twas not me who compared Hayes to Clemente. Guessing this happened in the comments. Also not a huge comp guy. ... Anyway ... I don't think that's a fair expectation to place on anyone. There was only one Clemente. I'd let Hayes be his own guy and not get as pissed off about it.
62 Stack Monster: Jason, What does an IR player like Cruz do while he is injured? Granted, he can't run sprints or anything, but is there some sort of workout he might be doing?
Jason Mackey: Physical therapy, the same as "normal humans." He's starting, shoot, maybe today, to put weight on it, improve strength, range of motion, etc. He has continued to work out his upper-body. I'm not a doctor or a physical therapist, but absolutely they're rehabbing it and keeping everything else that does work right now in the best shape possible.
Mark in VA Beach: Thanks for hosting the chat Jason and doing such a great job. When I used to play, I had a consistent place in the batting order as did others on the team. I believe this consistent order helped us as hitters and facilitated more winning. It seems our manager is always messing with the batting order and I was wondering about your thoughts on this. Could the team benefit from having more consistency in the batting order when it comes to hitting better on a game to game basis? I would also like your thoughts on resting players on "scheduled" off days (i.e. McCutchen and Santana) when the Pirates have had plenty of off days in their schedule?
Jason Mackey: I don't love the new wave-ness of this stuff, either, Mark. But I think it's a battle we're all gonna lose. The Pirates love playing matchups. They love strategically resting guys, the same as pretty much every team. Yeah, I do think there's something to be said for continuity. It's tough for young players to get into a rhythm. But it's not gonna change, and they have to figure it out.
62 Stack Monster: Which LSU player will be drafted?
Jason Mackey: I think there's a good chance it'll be Crews or Skenes, personally.
George Costanza: With the success so far of the Reds rookie call ups, can you foresee the Pirates biting the bullet and promoting Endy and Davis for a shot in the arm and added Offensive pop? It is not often that the Central is this bad and winnable. The offense needs a lift..
Jason Mackey: Got this one earlier, George. Henry is hitting .213 over his last 13. Endy is hitting .261 over his last 16. They're not setting the world on fire down there.
Ed: Trade delay to a team that’s desperate for a catcher when endy or Davis get called up? Get some bullpen depth? Thanks, Jason
Jason Mackey: It's not a terrible thought. He's been good. But I might try to make it work with three because I like having Delay around for next year as a supplement to those guys. Also, if there's an injury, I like the safety net he would provide.
Chief Powhatan: Jason, what do you think of the clever Neil Everett leaving ESPN? That witty guy was the best at late-night ESPN-LA.
Jason Mackey: This is the first I've learned that he's leaving. I wish him nothing but the best moving forward.
Worst ever: So if you lose in humiliating fashion to a team that might be the worst in history wouldn't that make you the REAL worst team in Baseball history ?
Jason Mackey: So the Braves are also the worst team in baseball history?
UFO: The talent in the Pirate organization is like UFO's. People claim they've seen it but no one is sure it actually exist.
Jason Mackey: I dunno, man. Oneil Cruz looked pretty darn talented to me. Pretty sure the Pirates didn't break his ankle on purpose.
Busts all around: Contreras is a bust. Davis will be a bust. Cruz will be Polanco 2.0. Why is this team incapable of producing anyone good ?
Jason Mackey: Why do you spend time watching if that's your mindset? Geez. Go do a puzzle.
Bill: Jason, the bullpen is strong outside of Rob Z and Chase. I'm hoping we see Mlodzsinski soon and I hope Selby isnt far behind when healthy. Has there been any update on Selby?
Jason Mackey: There hasn't, Bill. Tomczyk talks today. Would imagine we get something. Agree with you on Mlodzinski. He has pitched really well.
Chief Powhatan: What's with all the 'gracias' 'danke' stuff from these folks?
Jason Mackey: They're grateful.
Drew: I liked your Rich Hill piece today. I think it was Monday's game when I saw him having what looked like a pretty involved conversation with Johan Oviedo after Oviedo had finished his start. I think talking player to player may be something that gets overlooked by the fans sometimes.
Jason Mackey: Yep. Hill does it all the time. He genuinely cares about these guys. It's not just randomly going up to a guy and saying something. They've needed what Hill has brought for a long time.
Chief Powhatan: What's your most precious baseball card? Is it a Pirate?
Jason Mackey: Can't say I have a "precious card." I have some downstairs that I care about. About a 50-50 split hockey and baseball, honestly.
Same Circus, New Clowns: The thing that amazes me every year with this franchise is the new and different ways it figures out how to embarrass itself. Running with your cell phone in your pocket. Sunflower seeds. Will Craig last year....this years gets destroyed by a team that might lose 130 games.
Jason Mackey: It's three games. Holy Lord. We're really turning one series into a referendum on the state of the Pirates aren't we?
jeff: Thanks Jason for the chats. This team is fun to watch and I am looking forward to my first game in years. Whats your favorite seat in the ballpark to catch a night game
Jason Mackey: I prefer the third-base box seats or right field. I think it's so cool to turn around out there and also feel like you're on the river. Also where I would sit a lot with my dad.
Guarantee: It's a shame the A's didn't sweep. This franchise deserves to be humiliated year in and year out. They are a disgrace to the City of Pittsburgh and Pennsylvania in general
Jason Mackey: Related: They're a game out of first place.
Chief Powhatan: Jason, did you know Gregory Polanco is hitting .288 with 7 HR's in 43 games for Chiba Lotte in the Japan League. Wish he could've approached those numbers here.
Jason Mackey: Did not know that. And, yeah, same. Greg was a good dude who worked his tail off. Hope he continues to thrive over there.
Tim: I always enjoy your chat. The Pirates have been such overachievers this year and it has been fun to watch. But it seems to me that the AAA team has been weaker than expected from the perspective of provided players ready to be called up and contribute. Your thoughts?
Jason Mackey: Ehh, I don't know. They've had injuries. Where are you expecting contributions to come from? Who are you sitting? I'd like to see more pitching, sure. They also have two of their top starters down with Tommy John.
Matt: Any idea why they aren't giving Shackleford a shot? Suwinski has plenty of swing and miss and Shack has similar concerns but has improved it a bit this year. Great exit velos and launch angle. Any thoughts?
Jason Mackey: Probably looking for a regular role or something to give him. And maybe he gets up here and takes the place of Palacios. But you're not gonna sit Santana. I'd want to see a larger sample from Shackelford, personally.
Ray: Sorry Jason, but I agree with Gino regarding the home run celebrations in the dugout. I could never see Pirates like Clemente, Stargell and Parker acting like that. I know you probably won’t show this on your chat, but there are some people who like to see professionals play and act like professionals.
Jason Mackey: Of course I'll show it. Times change, Ray. We used to smoke on airplanes. It's a different world. They're having fun. I'm never going to begrudge someone for having fun. Only thing I don't like is when players/teams -- the Pirates are good about this -- do stuff when down by a bunch. You wanna celebrate? Be good and win.
epiballo: The debate did occur in the comments, which answers another question I wondered about: do the authors of the published sports articles read the comments that follow. Can we assume they do not?
Jason Mackey: I do not. There's way too much negativity there for me, and I find it clouds my process of producing content.
Worst ever: Except the Braves lost in close ones Jason. The Pirates got blown out
Jason Mackey: The point remains: There's been too much reaction to one series, IMO.
Chief Powhatan: When you're on that Cochran Sports panel next time and the guy sitting next to you agitates the heck out of you and deserves a YouTube moment, would it be too much to ask you kick his stool so he hits the floor.
Jason Mackey: Only if it's Poni, though.
Brad S.: I know he’s young and it’s early but any reason to be concerned with Termarr’s strikeout rate? Feels too similar to Nick Gonzales’ issues
Jason Mackey: Not at all. He's way too young for me to go there with him.
Chief Powhatan: Great job as always, Jason. Stayed for the entire hour. You and PZ have the best answers.
Jason Mackey: Thank you, sir.
Johhny M: Dead & Co. Great show. Did you check out YouTube? There are snippets, etc. That's it for the other one, Jason. ;)
Jason Mackey: I did. Had someone texting me videos during the game as well.
Jason Mackey: OK, folks. That does it for this week. Thanks so much as always. Talk to ya next Friday from Milwaukee.
First Published: June 9, 2023, 2:30 p.m.
