Pirates' Next Steps After Disappointing Trade Deadline Are Clear

The Pittsburgh Pirates faced a highly disappointing trade deadline, drawing widespread criticism for their modest returns, especially for star reliever David Bednar, whose trade package was viewed as underwhelming compared to other deals this season and last. Additionally, Bailey Falter was traded for minimal value and was reportedly a non-tender candidate despite solid performance since joining the team. The Pirates only moved two rental players—Adam Frazier and Caleb Ferguson—leaving many fans outraged and frustrated with general manager Ben Cherington's management. The fallout from this limited activity is expected to have long-term repercussions, likely negative, and the team now appears to be shifting focus toward salary relief. Despite offloading Bednar and Falter, players like Isaiah Kiner-Falefa, Tommy Pham, and Andrew Heaney remain on the roster, at least temporarily. As the season progresses, the team may place some players on waivers to clear payroll, similar to the Angels' recent move of six players on waivers to cut costs. If these players are unclaimed, the Pirates are likely to release them, as they did with Michael A. Taylor last year, who was eventually released ...