After making a splash with a trade earlier on Tuesday, it appears the Pittsburgh Pirates are trying to further bolster their lineup. The team now has interest in Minnesota Twins first baseman Justin Morneau, reports Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com.
MLB trade rumors: Justin Morneau drawing interest from Pirates
The Pirates are in the playoff hunt and are trying to add another bat to their lineup.
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The Pirates had been thought to be looking into Morneau around the July trade deadline, but never made the move to acquire him. The team was allegedly turned off by the amount of remaining money owed to the first baseman and his poor play at the time. Morneau hit .175 with just a .596 OPS in July.
Now, however, Morneau’s contract looks a little more reasonable -- he is owed about $2.6 million for the remainder of the year, and the Twins are reportedly willing to pay a chunk of it. Furthermore, he has been hitting much better in August, posting an .868 OPS. In particular, his power numbers are up as the left-hander has seven home runs in the month.
Morneau cleared waivers earlier in August, meaning he can be traded to any team like he could have been before the July deadline.
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The Pirates have been using Gaby Sanchez at first base all season. Over 116 games, Sanchez has hit .243/.350/.400
Pittsburgh acquired Marlon Byrd from the Mets earlier in the day, bolstering a right field position that has been the source of many struggles this season for the team.
Pittsburgh is currently embroiled in a playoff race while also looking for its first winning season since 1992. The Pirates are just a half game out of first place in the National League Central with a 76-54 record.
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