In this Pirates trade rumors and news update, the Pittsburgh Pirates have reportedly expressed trade in Philadelphia Phillies reliever Antonio Bastardo and outfielder Marlon Byrd.
Here's Jon Morosi of FOX Sports 1 with the scoop:
Pirates showing interest in Phillies LHP Antonio Bastardo and OF Marlon Byrd, sources say. @FOXSports1
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 29, 2014
With the NL Central currently clogged at the top, adding an impact right-handed bat such as Byrd could make all the difference as the Pirates try to gain ground on the Brewers at the top of the division.
Byrd's power numbers are very impressive, hitting a home run in just over every 20 at-bats. He's hitting .266/.316/.478 as well and has been a consistent threat in a Phillies lineup that has been up-and-down all year.
Bastardo is 4-4 this season with a 4.17 ERA in 45.1 innings and has struggled with his control all season, on pace to walk close to 40 batters (25 currently) for the first time in his MLB career. His previous high was 26 in both 2011 and 2012.
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