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Lack of depth could keep talented Pirates out of playoffs in 2016

As the 2016 MLB season approaches, SN's Jesse Spector will examine each team's outlook. Today: the Pirates.

2015: 98-64, second place in National League Central, lost to Cubs in wild-card game

Key arrivals: 1B John Jaso, LHP Jonathon Niese, RHP Ryan Vogelsong

MORE: These MLB players could be 2016 breakout stars

Key departures: 1B Pedro Alvarez, RHP A.J. Burnett, RHP Charlie Morton, 2B Neil Walker

Best-case scenario: A lineup whose everyday look will feature only two players 30 or older — catcher Francisco Cervelli and whoever plays first base — takes another step forward among the best in the game, largely with sustained performance across the board and steps up from Gregory Polanco and Josh Harrison.