Throughout the offseason, I've posted updates on the starting pitching market, noting the players who make the most sense for the Pirates. Some of those options have gone off the board, such as Edinson Volquez, Andrew Cashner, and Derek Holland. The free agent market didn't offer a lot of options to begin with, but it's kind of a surprise that we sit here on December 18th with options still remaining.
I guess I should say, it's a surprise that one option is still remaining: Ivan Nova.
The free agent class was considered weak heading into the offseason, with Nova viewed as the second best starting pitching option, behind Rich Hill.