2. Matt Moore
What the Pirates should be looking to do is flip those older players, Niese, Liriano and Melancon into prospects. With the influx of prospects they should go out and add a younger arm under more team control.
The reasons for the Pirates trading Liriano and Niese is that they have four pitchers who made a season debut in 2016. They will still need depth at pitching, and in adding Moore, they are adding upside and talent.
Moore has not started 30 games since 2012. Still, he has started 17 games this season. He has a 8.13 strikeout per nine rate, and walks 2.62 batters per nine innings. In comparison to Liriano with an 8.73 strikeout rate, and 5.65 walk rate, you are getting a cheaper version with some more strike zone accuracy. He does have 4.54 ERA, but the change of league and ballpark could make Pittsburgh a good fit for Moore.
The Rays have a rotation that consists of Chris Archer, Jake Odorizzi, Drew Smyly, and Blake Snell. They are hoping to get Alex Cobb this season, and while that may mean less innings for the 23-year old Snell, they could trade a pitcher and add to their farm system.
Moore can replace Liriano for the Pirates in 2016, and lead a younger core of pitchers as a reliable veteran pitcher. He may even be their next Francisco Liriano, AJ Burnett, JA Happ type of reclamation project. Pirates fans should be happy if they were to acquire Moore.
Next: 1. Rich Hill