MLB Trade Deadline Rumors: 5 trades Pirates should make

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PHILADELPHIA, PA – JULY 05: Juan Nicasio #12 of the Pittsburgh Pirates delivers a pitch the eighth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on July 5, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Pirates won 5-2. (Photo by Drew Hallowell/Getty Images) /

Trade Juan Nicasio and Daniel Hudson to the Nationals

The most discussed team need of the 2017 season has been the struggling Nationals bullpen, which ranks dead last among all big league teams in ERA (5.19) and batting average allowed (.277). Washington relievers sit No. 27 overall and second to last in the National League in WHIP (1.43). The closer role has gotten the headlines, but in order to gear up for a World Series run, a complete bullpen revamp would help.

Fortunately for the Pirates, Pittsburgh has two relievers that can help. Juan Nicasio has been one of the best middle relievers in the majors this season. In 41 appearances, the 30-year-old right-hander has a 2.61 ERA and 2.29 FIP with 39 strikeouts in 38 innings. Nicasio is scheduled to be a free agent after the season, meaning the timing is right to capitalize on his value.

Daniel Hudson is signed through 2018, but the Bucs would likely be willing to move him as well. Owed $5.5 million next season, Pittsburgh would likely be very happy to do it. An eight-year veteran with a 3.97 career ERA, Hudson has posted a 4.42 ERA and 4.76 FIP this season in 42 appearances. The 30-year-old former starter has 35 strikeouts in 36.2 innings. While his numbers are worse than Nicasio’s, Washington needs all the help it can get right now.

Relief pitchers don’t usually bring back huge prospect hauls, but the Pirates could still add some talent. The Nats have a few third basemen among their Top 20 prospects, including Sheldon Neus, Drew Ward, Anderson Franco and Kelvin Gutierrez. Pittsburgh may be able to get Washington to part with one, and potentially add a couple of low level prospects as well.

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