Pirates Re-Sign Yates

The Pittsburgh Pirates and RHP Tyler Yates have come to terms today, signing a minor league deal. Yates underwent Tommy John surgery in 2009, and missed the entire 2010 season. Originally 

joining the Pirates in 2008, via a trade, in his first season with the the team, he posted a 6-3 record while appearing in 72 games with a 4.66 ERA.


Given nearly two years of rehab, and the hope that Yates will return to his form, he would be a great addition, once again, to the bullpen as a middle reliever.
After the trade deadline, last season, the Pirates bullpen faltered, and any addition to it would be welcomed. There have yet to be any details released by the Pirates, though I would expect an invitation to Spring Training and a good chance of making the 40 or 25 man roster at some point this upcoming season.


The Pirates bullpen, at this point and at any point, needs to be a strong as possible. With the struggling starting rotation of 2010, and the upgrades with James McDonald and Kevin Correia, the rotation most certainly be stronger next year. Long/middle relievers are always important, with their ability to clean up a mess, or to at least stabilize, after a starters early departure. Once again, a great move today, made by the Pirates, with not only depth added, but quality.