In Pittsburgh, rumors fly faster than home runs, and this time the protagonist was Kyle Schwarber. News that the Pirates were interested in signing him stirred the fans and gave the impression that, at last, owner Bob Nutting would open the purse strings. However, behind that wave of headlines could be a very different motive: to keep Paul Skenes happy and change the public perception of the team.
Kyle Schwarber: A rumor too big to be true
A few days ago, several reports sparked the idea that the Pirates were after Schwarber, a hitter who could command a contract worth more than $160 million, a figure that exceeds Pittsburgh’s entire current payroll. For an organization noted for its economic limitations, the rumor seemed unlikely, but it still generated excitement among a fan base accustomed to disappointment, eternal rebuilding and 100-loss seasons.
Just as the excitement grew, so did doubts about the legitimacy of these rumors, as it seemed unlikely that the Pirates would be able to afford such a high salary.
Was Kyle Schwarber a play to protect Skenes?
PiratesPaul SkenesSkenes
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Some real but insufficient moves in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh
has made adjustments: they signed one-year contracts with Jack Suwinski and Yohan Ramirez and freed up roster space by letting go of Alexander Canario. In addition, their name appeared as a possible destination for Pete Alonso, which makes sense after finishing last in home runs last season.
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