February Offseason Report
February 06, 2003
Latest Team Info:
This offseason the Pirates Front Office has had two main goals they wanted to accomplish. One of them was to sign a starting pitcher to help fill out the rotation and the other was to bring in a proven outfielder. Well after a busy January they accomplished one of the goals. That being the signing of pitcher Jeff Suppan from the Kansas City Royals. He will most likely be used as the fourth starter in the rotation fitting in nicely behind Benson, Wells, and Fogg. After some attempts at CF Jose Cruz Jr. failed, he ended up signing with the Giants. So the Pirates are left without a true CF entering spring training. The outfielders still being pursued by the Pirates are FA Kenny Lofton and Yankee left fielder Raul Mondesi.
Injuries:
No new injuries. C Humberto Cota is still recovering from his broken hand that he suffered playing winter ball, but is expected to be ready for the Grapefruit League opener.
Rumorama:
While the Mondesi deal pretty much died when George Steinbrenner wanted the Pirates to take on most of his contract, the Kenny Lofton signing is still in sight. Lofton is heading towards the end of his career and if he signs with the Pirates he could help out in alot of different ways. Mostly just being a great veteran leadoff hitter and being there to help teach the young guys. Plus if he signs rather then Mondesi then Brian Giles can stay in LF and not have to move to center. Dave Littlefield said that he will pursue signing Lofton and any other outfielders until the start of the season.
What's Next???
Coming up next time will be the Pirates Spring Training Report. I will take a look at which jobs are open for battle and who most likely has a spot on the plane flight back to Pittsburgh for opening day....
Correspondents Note I:
Check out this weeks edition of The Hook for an in depth analysis of the Pirates pitching staff and the rest of the NL Cental.
Correspondents Note II:
If you have any questions or comments concerning the 2003 Buccos please go to the Pirates Forum at our message board.
