OSP with Mark Maradei and the Barbershop Crew:Bucco Talk with Greg Brown the Voice of the Pittsburgh Pirates

If anyone outside of the clubhouse has their finger on the pulse of the Pittsburgh Pirates, it's long time play by play announcer Greg Brown. We are fortunate to have him join us on this episode to take a peek into the 2025 Pirates. With few roster roster and coaching changes can we expect much of the same or does one of the best young pitching staffs in baseball lead by All Rookie of the Year and CY Young candidate Paul Skenes take this team to a level they have not seen since 2013-2015. 

 

1. Lets jump right into the off season, the team spent under 12 million dollars to fill spots that were in need. Did they really address these needs with upgrades when all they did were 1 year deals with aging veterans or guys looking for an opportunity?

 

2. Who would you say is the most important acquisition of the off season? 

 

3. Spencer Horwitz was traded for in a 3 team deal to be a mainstay hopefully at first base. Coming in, Ben Cherrington knew that a wrist injury has been an issue. Why did he make the deal and if so why give up so much starting with Luis Ortiz?

 

4. With Horwitz out now, who will play first base in his absence? What is the timeline from his return and what can the Pirates expect from him.

 

5. Recently, the Pirates signed Tommy Pham, a 37 year old journeyman outfielder. Why? He has a history and a not so favorable one at that. 

 

6. What role does Isiah Kiner-Falefa play on the 2025 Pirates? He has been known predominantly as a highly productive utility player but word on the street is that he could be the everyday shortstop and that's not his strong suit.

 

7. Where will the power source come from with this team? Andrew McCutcheon at 38 years old and Bryan Reynolds could be two sources. 

 

8. Before we move on to the pitching staff, share what you believe will be the most days starting 8 (I know Shelton has his Sunday lineup).

 

9. Paul Skenes is a generational player. What can Pirate fans expect next from him after he was an All-Star, Rookie of the Year and a Cy Young candidate in his ¾ of a season.

 

10. Can Jared Jones maintain his #2 role? It looks like he will be needed to replicate his success from last year or will Mitch Keller swap spots with him to alleviate some of the pressure and innings. 

 

11. Please project the starting five pitchers. 

 

12. How did the Pirates help their bullpen? 

13. Will Bednar and Holderman bounce back from somewhat disappointing seasons and what makes you believe that?