Pirates Eager

By Heath Bloxton
   The Pittsburgh Pirates have reported to Spring Training in Bradenton, Florida and are trying to solve some of the problems that occurred last season. Over the period of the spring, the Pirates will find out who will fill the roster for the 2006 season.
   The Pirates organization took a step forward this winter, by hiring a new manager, Jim Tracy. The Pirates believed that Tracy was the perfect fit to coach a young team. Time will tell whether the choice of manager was the right decision.
   The Pirates offense returns several key players for the 2006 season. Left fielder, Jason Bay led the Pirates in home runs last season and will look to strive even further. Flashy shortstop, Jack Wilson will return with his fielding ability and on-base talent. Youngsters, Jose Castillo, Chris Duffy, and Ryan Doumit will also return hoping to improve their hitting ability.
   The Pirates also signed some veteran offensive players over the winter. The first signing was that of first baseman, Sean Casey. Casey, a native of Upper St. Clair, PA, will start for the Pirates and will add power to the corner infield position. Casey said that he was happy to become a Pirate because as a kid, he had always dreamed of playing for Pittsburgh. Other additions to the offense were the signing of outfielder, Jeromy Burnitz and third baseman Joe Randa. Both will start for the Pirates.
   The Pirates’ pitching staff will be closely observed throughout the spring. The Pirates return several of their starters, but those players will be expected to improve. Strikeout pitcher, Oliver Perez, has high expectations for the 2006 season. His ability to fire fastballs is a key factor to his style. Veteran Pirate, Kip Wells, will work with the new pitching coach to fix some of his problems in his release. Young lefties Zach Duke and Paul Maholm were sensational in 2005, and will take a starting role in the rotation this year. The final spot in the rotation will be chosen by management, depending on the play of candidates Ryan Vogelsong, Victor Santos, Sean Burnett and Ian Snell.
   The bullpen will be a familiar group of faces. Returning to the pen are John Grabow, Mike Gonzalez, and Solomon Torres. The long-reliever spot will be filled with one or more of the starters that do not make the rotation. Newcomers for the bullpen are veterans Roberto Hernandez and Damaso Marte. Both were added through free agency.
   The Pirates have many top players that will be coming off the bench. Power hitter, Craig Wilson, will be under the radar during Spring Training . Also on the bench will be utility man, Freddy Sanchez, catcher, Humberto Cota, and outfielder, Jody Gerut. All may get to see some playing time throughout the year.
   The Pirates finished dead last in their division in 2005. However, with additions of more talent, they have a good chance to move up in the standings this season.