Central Division Recap: Pirates, Twins, and Cardinals Take the Field

The Pittsburgh Pirates are gearing up for next season after finishing fourth in the NL Central with a 76-86 record. The team is looking to bolster their starting pitching following the news of right-hander Johan Oviedo’s imminent Tommy John surgery. General Manager Ben Cherington has also expressed interest in adding a veteran first baseman to the roster.

In the hunt for potential acquisitions, FanSided’s Robert Murray suggests that the Pirates could consider recently non-tendered sluggers Rowdy Tellez and Dominic Smith. Tellez, who turns 29 in March, had a strong 2022 season with the Brewers but struggled with injuries in 2023. Smith, a former first-round pick, has had a varied performance in recent years, showcasing both success and struggle.

Looking at other teams in the MLB’s Central divisions, the Minnesota Twins are focused on reducing payroll, which has led to changes in their scouting department. Additionally, the Cardinals are hoping to see a resurgence in pitcher Andre Pallante’s performance after a challenging 2023 season.

Overall, as teams prepare for the upcoming season, there is a sense of anticipation and strategy in the air. The Pirates, Twins, and Cardinals are all contemplating their next moves as they aim to improve and compete in their respective divisions.

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David Rodriguez

David Rodriguez brings the excitement of Major League Baseball to readers. With a deep appreciation for America’s pastime, he covers the latest MLB news, scores, and player achievements, keeping fans up to date with their favorite teams and players.