This is probably obvious to most of us at this point, but it's important enough that it seems worth posting about -- barring a dramatic turnaround, 2015 will almost certainly be Pedro Alvarez's last season with the Bucs. As a hitter, he's merely adequate, not nearly good enough to compensate for his disastrous defense. He's no longer young, and no longer cheap, and he's leaving the Pirates little choice but to part ways with him after the season ends.
Alvarez has actually slightly improved his offense this season as compared to last -- he's batting .234/.311/.431 this year versus .