In about two weeks, players eligible for minor league free agency will become free agents. Then the Pirates can begin their search for the next Richard Rodriguez. They’re starting from a better point than a year ago, when Felipe Vázquez was the only set bullpen piece, unless you want to count George Kontos. Now they’ve got four established, late-inning relievers in Vázquez, Rodriguez, Keone Kela and Kyle Crick. (Well, five, but Edgar Santana will miss the season.) The thing is, I don’t feel much confidence that they can fill the remaining three or four spots with what’s on hand, not to mention adding the depth they’re going to need if somebody gets hurt or just sucks.
Bucco breakfast: How much bullpen depth do the Pirates need to add?
