MLB Rumors: Pittsburgh Pirates might be looking to deal Jose Tabata
By Hayden Kane
The Pittsburgh Pirates followed up a rare playoff berth in 2013 with a relatively quiet off-season. It might have been too quiet, as the Pirates still need help in spots, first base in particular, and now might be dangling a couple trade pieces to make a deal between now and Opening Day.
Among the names that the Pirates might be willing to deal is outfielder Jose Tabata.
#Pirates shopping RF Jose Tabata. Will be interesting to see if there are any takers with three years, $12.25M left on contract.
— RobBiertempfel (@RobBiertempfel) March 18, 2014
Biertempfel also noted that the team would be open to trading outfielder Travis Snider, though that seems less likely unless they hear an offer they really like.
Of lesser note perhaps is the fact that the Pirates might also have a reliever to dangle to an interested team.
It's looking like RHP Vin Mazzaro (out of options) will be odd man out of bullpen, so #Pirates are willing to listen to offers.
— RobBiertempfel (@RobBiertempfel) March 18, 2014
A trade for Mazzaro has “player to be named later” written all over it, with “cash considerations” also in play.
As for Tabata, in four seasons he is a career .274/.339/.385 hitter. The Pirates locked him up for six years in 2011 but have largely been disappointed with his play since then, his lack of power in particular.
These are fringe moves at best, and depending on how the rest of the NL Central looks it might not be enough for Clint Hurdle and the Pirates.