Pirates Draft

[salmahayek]

I was hoping the Pirates might get Carlos Correa...obviously, those hopes were dashed when the Astros took him first overall.

Mark Appel at # 8 was a no brainer. Despite the difficulty in possibly signing him in lieu of the new CBA, I say sign him no matter what. Forfeit the first round pick next year to get it done, if you have to. That in and of itself would be a cost saver on the back end. Getting a potential # 2 starter into the rotation in a couple of years would be well worth the cost and price in the extra pick.

Yes, the draft is purported to be deeper next year, but it is doubtful a talent of Appel's quality would fall to # 9 next year. Take him while you can and get him into your system faster in hopes of getting him to the show in a couple of years. If drafting a HS player next year with the first round pick, it could take that player 4 - 6 years to reach the bigs. Pirates fans are tired of waiting.

Also, the Pirates were said to be set on a bat in the first round this year until Appel unexpectedly fell to them. If going above slot to sign Appel and forfeiting next year's first round pick, then spend the money now and sign Cuban FA outfielder Jorge Soler, who a lot of scouts like better than the Oakland A's Yoenis Cespedes.

Soler would be a great addition to the system, giving the Pirates four legitimate corner outfield prospects in Soler, Barrett Barnes, Josh Bell, and Robbie Grossman.

[salmahayek]

Well, Soler to the Cubs for $30 mil over nine years...

That's a commitment the Pirates really couldn't make...not that they couldn't if they wanted to, but going to that financial commitment to an unproven player would upset their team pay scale.

Let's hope they do what it takes to sign Appel, Barnes, and catcher Wyatt Mathisen - even if it would possibly cost them their first round pick next year.

[salmahayek]

Mathisen signed - Barnes and Appel to go!

I think Barnes is a foregone conclusion and that the Pirates will step up for Appel.

[Hamyltowne]

Didn't sign Appel.

Welcome to the new draft rules.

9th pick in next year's draft awarded as compensation. The 2013 class looks to be weaker than 2012, though.

Still, McCutchen for MVP and Burnett for comeback player of the year. Looking good, Buccos.

[salmahayek]

They'll probably go for one bat and one arm with their two first - rounders this year.