Bucs On Deck Podcast

The Pittsburgh Pirates were able to avoid the sweep at the hands of the Colorado Rockies on Sunday, winning 8-6. I recap that game, plus the rest of the weekend for the Pirates. Subscribe to the Bucs on Deck Substack for daily content on the entire Pittsburgh Pirates' organization.bucsondeck.subscribe.com/subscribeAlso, check out the YouTube channel for daily videos on Pirates.www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

I recap the Pirates' series win against the Athletics. Should we be worried about Jared Jones? Is Dennis Santana turning a corner? I break it all down and give a brief preview of the upcoming series in Colorado.Subscribe to the Bucs on Deck Substack for daily content on the entire Pittsburgh Pirates organization.bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeAlso, check out the YouTube channel for daily videos on the Pirates' organization. www.youtube.com/subscribe Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

Levi Sterling has been rolling for the Bradenton Marauders. I go over his recent success and preview my feature article on him, which goes live at Bucs on Deck today. Also, I talk about Yordany De Los Santos and the start of his season. Has he turned a corner in his development, and what type of profile are we looking at?Subscribe to the Bucs on Deck Substack for daily content on the entire Pittsburgh Pirates organization. bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeAlso, check out the YouTube channel for daily videos on the Pirates as well.www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

Reinold Navarro was fantastic for the Bradenton Marauders on Tuesday, striking out seven over five innings pitched. I go over his season and what makes him such an electric prospect to watch.I also discuss some of the standouts in the Florida Complex League this year for the Pirates, including Johan De Los Santos, plus a more under-the-radar player to watch.Finally, I talk about Easton Carmichael and the great month/season he's having for the Greensboro Grasshoppers and why he could be ready for the push to Altoona. Subscribe to the Bucs on Deck Substack for daily content on the Pittsburgh Pirates' organization. bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeAlso, check out the YouTube channel for daily videos on the Pittsburgh Pirateswww.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

The Pittsburgh Pirates wrap up their homestand with a losing 2-4 record after dropping their game on Sunday against the Miami Marlins.Paul Skenes hasn't won a game in over a month, although he struck out 10 batters over six innings this past time up.I take a look at the upcoming road trip and run down the minor league games on Sunday and the top performers from the previous week. Subscribe to the Bucs on Deck Substack for daily content on the entire Pittsburgh Pirates' organization.bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeCheck out the YouTube channel for daily video uploads as well.www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

The Pirates win to even their series against the Marlins and go for a series win on Sunday with Paul Skenes on the mound.Down in the minors, could Derek Diamond be an option out of the bullpen for the Pirates in the majors? Plus, Duce Gourson is heating up, Jack Anker strikes out 10, and Tony Blanco Jr. hits a walk-off home run for the Greensboro Grasshoppers.Subscribe to the Bucs on Deck Substack for daily content on the entire Pittsburgh Pirates organization. bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeCheck out the YouTube channel for daily videos on the entire Pirates' organization. www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

The Pittsburgh Pirates lost again as the bullpen struggled, again. Plus, Antwone Kelly makes his major league debut. What can we expect from him?Khristian Curtis makes his Triple-A debut and dominates. Could we see him in the majors this year? Subscribe to the Bucs on Deck Substack for daily content on the entire Pittsburgh Pirates organization. bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeAlso, check out the YouTube channel for daily videos on the Pirates' organization.www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

Mitch Keller's struggles continue as the Pirates drop their series with the Dodgers. Rafael Flores had a big game in his first start of the season, and he wasn't the only catcher showing big power in the upper levels on Thursday.Subscribe to the Bucs on Deck subscribe for daily content on the entire Pittsburgh Pirates' organization, from the major league team all the way down to rookie ball.bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeAlso, check out the YouTube channel for daily videos on the entire Pirates' organization. www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

Tyler Callihan hits the first two home runs of his major league career, including a go-ahead three-run shot in the bottom of the eighth.The win stops a losing streak, although the injuries continue to mount as Oneil Cruz hits the IL and Endy Rodriguez leaves the game early.Plus a complete minor league rundown, including another home run from Termarr Johnson. Subscribe to Bucs on Deck Substack for daily content on the entire Pirates' organization.bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeAlso, check out the YouTube channel for daily videos on the Pirates as well. www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

The Pittsburgh Pirates got a fantastic start from Paul Skenes, but their bullpen imploded again, and they have now lost four in a row. There was plenty of roster shuffling going on throughout the system. I go over the notable movements and what to expect from some of the players on the move.Finally, I am in Greensboro! After missing Seth Hernandez while I was in Bradenton, I caught up and got a chance to watch him pitch on Tuesday.Subscribe to the Bucs on Deck Substack for daily content on the entire Pittsburgh Pirates organization.bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeAlso, subscribe to the YouTube channel for daily videos.www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

The Pirates were swept by the Atlanta Braves on the road, what happened and where do they go from there? Plus, the Grasshoppers' offense exploded for over 30 runs this weekend, averaging 10 per game over the entire week, but still lost the series. I go over their performance on Sunday.Finally, the Pirates promoted a trio of players from Altoona to Indianapolis. I go over each player and what you can expect from them.Subscribe to the Bucs on Deck Substack for daily content about the Pittsburgh Pirates organization.bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeAlso, subscribe to the YouTube channel for videos on the Pirates' organization.www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

The Pittsburgh Pirates lost another game and are now in a position to get swept by the Braves. Brandon Lowe getting injured in the ninth inning is the biggest headline, but the rotation is also struggling during the road trip.Digging through the minors, I talk about Keiner Delgado, some high-upside arms in the FCL, and Wilton Guerrero Jr.'s continued success in the DSL.Subscribe to Bucs on Deck for daily content on the entire Pirates' organization. bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeAlso, check out the YouTube channel for videos on the Pirates' minor leaguers. www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

Mitch Keller had a rough May, and things didn't look too much better in his first start of June. I talk about Murf Gray and his three-hit night and the up-and-down season from Levi Sterling.Plus, a complete rundown from each affiliate during the previous night of action. Subscribe to Bucs on Deck Substack for daily content on the entire Pittsburgh Pirates' organization. bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeAlso, check out the YouTube channel where I post player videos. Not only can you read about the entire organization, but you can watch them play. https://www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

Jared Jones and Carmen Mlodzinski combined to shut down the Houston Astros and help the Pirates earn a series victory on the road. In the rundown of the minors, I discuss some potential bullpen help in Double-A, as well as Irwin Ramirez, one of my favorite arms in the system, who pitched well in the FCL on Thursday.Subscribe to Bucs on Deck Substack for an in-depth look at the entire Pirates' organization. bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeAlso, check out my YouTube channel, where I post live look videos and some long-form videos. https://www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

Seth Hernandez struck out eight batters over five innings on the road for the Greensboro Grasshoppers. Plus, more on the latest Pirates' bullpen implosion and my take on FanGraphs releasing their top prospects lists for the Pirates.Subscribe to Bucs on Deck for the best daily content on the entire Pittsburgh Pirates organization, from top to bottom. https://bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeHead on over to YouTube and subscribe to the channel as well. I'll have plenty of video from my trip to Bradenton over the next couple of weeks. https://www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

The Pittsburgh Pirates win in Houston, but Dennis Santana continues to struggle. What could be next for him? Plus, a complete rundown from the first day with every Pirates' affiliate in action. Subscribe to Bucs on Deck Substack for daily content on the entire Pirates' organization. bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeFollow me on Twitter: @__Murphy88 Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

Bubba Chandler picked up his first win of the season, throwing six innings against the Tampa Bay Rays. I go over what stood out about his start, namely a potentially revamped arsenal that includes a sweeper.We then look at the minors, where Altoona won their first game of the season. Who has stood out so far among a rough start for most of the hitters?Plus, Seth Hernandez made his third pro start and completed five innings and Murf Gray continues to hit. Subscribe to Bucs on Deck for daily content on the Pirates' organization. Also, subscribe to the YouTube channel for player videos. I was just in Greensboro for a week, I'll have videos from my stay uploaded throughout the upcoming week.bucsondeck.substack.comwww.youtube.com/bucsondeckTwitter: __Murphy88 Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

Seth Hernandez, the Pirates' first-round pick in the 2025 draft, leads a very interesting Bradenton Marauders pitching staff. There are plenty of high-upside arms, but many come with questions about the control.Subscribe to Bucs on Deck Substack for daily contact on the Pittsburgh Pirates' organization. Also, subscribe to the YouTube channel for more video content. www.bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribewww.youtube.com/@bucsondeckFollow me on Twitter, @__Murphy88 Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

Today, we discuss the hitters for the 2026 Bradenton Marauders, which heavily features college picks from the 2025 draft.Who are the names to watch? We break it all down here. Subscribe to Bucs on Deck Substack for daily content on the Pittsburgh Pirates organization. Also, subscribe to the Youtube Channel to watch some of the top prospects in the Pirates system.www.bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribewww.youtube.com/@bucsondeckAlso, follow me on Twitter: @__Murphy88 Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

While they don't have the star power, the Greensboro Grasshoppers pitching staff have several interesting names to monitor, especially if they see an uptick in stuff. Subscribe to Bucs on Deck Substack for daily updates on the Pittsburgh Pirates organization. Also, subscribe to the Bucs on Deck YouTube channel for videos and highlights of players in the organization.www.bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribewww.youtube.com/@bucsondeckFollow me on Twitter: @__Murphy88 Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

Today, we preview the hitters for the 2026 Greensboro Grasshoppers, which is headlined by Edward Florentino and Tony Blanco Jr., but also have some of the more intriguing shortstop prospects in the system (not named Konnor Griffin).I break down each of the hitters on the break camp roster for the Grasshoppers this season.Subscribe to Bucs on Deck for daily content on the Pittsburgh Pirates' organization.www.bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribewww.youtube.com/@bucsondeckFollow me on Twitter: @__Murphy88 Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

The Pittsburgh Pirates are set to promote the top prospect in baseball, Konnor Griffin, to the majors. I go into his rise in the minors and his potential impact on the roster.I then go over some of the top performers from the first full night of minor league baseball, including Khristian Curtis, Carlos Castillo, and Yordany De Los Santos.Subscribe to Bucs on Deck for daily content on the Pittsburgh Pirates' organization. www.bucsondeck.substack.comFollow me on Twitter: @__Murphy88Subscribe to the Youtube channel as well:www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

We continue our preview of the 2006 Pittsburgh Pirates minor league affiliates with a look at their Double-A affiliate's, the Altoona Curve, pitching staff.It will be led by names like Khristian Curtis, Connor Wietgrefe, and Anthony Solometo, but who else will round things out for the Curve?I take a full dive into that in our latest podcast episode. Subscribe to Bucs on Deck for daily updates on the Pittsburgh Pirates organizationwww.bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeFollow me on Twitter: @__Murphy88Also, subscribe to the YouTube channelwww.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

Today, we preview the hitters that will begin the 2026 season with the Altoona Curve. The Pirates' Double-A affiliate might not have any of the big-named hitting prospects in the season, but there are a few guys that are knocking on the door as taking that next step as far as their development. Subscribe to Bucs on Deck substack for all of your daily content on the Pirates' organization.www.bucsondeck.substack.comFollow me on Twitter: @__Murphy88Follow the YouTube pagewww.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

The Pittsburgh Pirates avoided a sweep at the hands of the New York Mets, winning in extra innings. I discuss the trouble the team has had hitting in key situations as well as the impact the new players are having compared to the returning.I then shift over and discuss Konnor Griffin's impressive opening weekend at Triple-A. Subscribe to Bucs on Deck Substack for daily Pirates' content, covering all the way to the lower levels of the minors.www.bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeFollow me on Twitter: @__Murphy88Subscribe to the YouTube page as wellwww.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

Konnor Griffin reached base four times on Saturday in a game that the Indianapolis Indians lost. Dominic Fletcher stole the show with some offense and defense. I also explore Mike Clevinger's potential fit with the Pirates and their extra innings lost to the Mets.I also preview Antwone Kelly making his Triple-A debut on Saturday and what I'm watching for this upcoming season.Subscribe to Bucs on Deck Substack for daily content on the Pittsburgh Pirates' organization. www.bucsondeck.com/subscribeFollow me on Twitter: @__MurphyAlso, subscribe to the YouTube Channel as well:www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

The Triple-A season got underway, with top prospect Konnor Griffin making is debut at the level. Who stood out in the Indianapolis Indians, and what I'm watching for in game two of the regular season for the Pirates all in today's episode.Follow me on Twitter @__Murphy88Subscribe to my Youtube channel:www.youtube.com/@bucsondeckSubscribe to Bucs on Deck Substack:bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

The Pittsburgh Pirates began their season with an 11-7 loss to the New York Mets. I go over my three takeaways/observations as well as a quick preview of the Indianapolis Indians opening weekend. Subscribe to Bucs on Deck Substack for daily content on the Pittsburgh Pirates organization. Follow me on Twitter: @__Murphy88Subscribe to the YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

The Florida Complex League begins this week, and we discuss some players to watch for the Pirates this year. There will be a few repeats. What kind of progress are we looking for from some of them?What new names will be worth monitoring, and are there any breakout candidates among the initial group of players beginning at the Complex?We then shift to the Bradenton Marauders and highlight three standouts early in the season, including Konnor Griffin.What kind of expectations should we have for Griffin based on his performance this season? We also talked about Axiel Plaz making better contact this year, as well as the velocity bump of Hunter Furtado.Bucs On Deck is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Follow us on Twitter:@NolaJeffy@__Murphy88Subscribe to the YouTube channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

In our latest podcast episode, we discuss my recent trip to Greensboro to watch the Grasshoppers for an entire week.Which players stood out? Is the Javier Rivas start of the season legitimate, and what have been the key factors in his breakout?The Pirates' pitching factory might have a legitimate breakout in Antwone Kelly, an international signing who hit triple-digits in his start last week. Is it just the fastball, or does he have a well-rounded arsenal?Is Shalin Polanco heading for a breakout, and what might help him get there?We then shift to Altoona and the fantastic start to the year from Hunter Barco. Is he a potential top 100 arm, and what pitching prospects would you take ahead of him in the Pirates' system right now?Finally, we talk about Liover Peguero. Is it time for him to get another shot in the majors, and is anything different from last year? We explore some of the analytics on just how much he may have improved and how to fit him on the major league roster.Follow us on X@__Murphy88@NolaJeffySubscribe to the YouTube Pagehttps://www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

In our latest podcast episode, we discuss some of the standouts for opening weekend for the rest of the affiliates in the Pirates' system. Between Garrett McMillan and Javier Rivas, we discuss all the top performers from the early games of the minor league season.We also talk, short-term, about some things we are watching for from some of the rest of the affiliates, like the usage of Alessandro Ercolani and Konnor Griffin at shortstop.Bucs On Deck is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.You can subscribe to the Substack here:https://bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribeYou can also follow us on Twitter:@__Murphy88@NolaJeffyAlso, check out my YouTube page where I post videos of minor league baseball in the Pirates systemhttps://www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

In our latest podcast episode, we discussed the Pirates' 1-5 start and how bleak things seem at the moment. We also discussed David Bednar getting optioned and recurring themes that have presented themselves the first time through the rotation.We also review the potential lower-level minor leaguers we will be watching closely in 2025, including some notable names and some under-the-radar follows.With the season starting recently, the site is having a flash sale on yearly subscriptions. From now until next Saturday, you can upgrade and get 30% off a yearly subscription when you become a paid member.That equates to less than $3 per month and far less than $1 per paid feature. Video breakdowns, our full write-ups on our top 25 prospects, and other player features are among the benefits of upgrading.Follow us on Twitter:@__Murphy88@NolaJeffySubscribe to the YouTube channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@bucsondeck Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

In our latest podcast episode, we discuss how the roster is coming together for opening day. How confident do we feel about what the initial 26-man roster is looking for the Pittsburgh Pirates?We also give our ‘soft' predictions for how many wins they will finish with and who the most valuable player might be.Shifting to the minor league side, we go over some projected upper-level prospects we are monitoring this season. The projected Triple-A rotation is an obvious pick, but what other players should you be watching going into 2025?Bucs On Deck is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Follow us on Twitter @__Murphy88@NolaJeffy Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

In our latest podcast episode, we discuss some of the early happenings in the Pirates' camp, including Endy Rodriguez and how a healthy version of himself can impact the rest of the lineup.We also talk about Braxton Ashcraft, Jared Jones, and Paul Skenes all looking to add a two-seamer to their arsenal this season and how it can help the rest of their pitches going forward.Finally, after inspiration on Twitter, we debate who has a better fastball: Paul Skenes or Bubba Chandler? We take a look at things from an analytical point of view, as well as the eye test.Subscribe to the site to get all our updates on the Pirates, and the entire organization, sent straight to your email. You can also subscribe to the podcast on it's own through Apple, Spotify, and Youtube.When you upgrade to a paid member, you can receive a 20% discount on a yearly subscription. With one paid feature a week, that's less than a dollar per premium article. Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

In our latest podcast episode, we discuss some of the prospects that will be a part of major league camp for the Pittsburgh Pirates. It's an intriguing group of names, even if most don't have a shot at breaking camp with the major league team.We then shift to the major league side of things and go over some players/storylines we are watching this Spring.BASEBALL IS BACK. Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

In our latest podcast episode, we discuss the upcoming International signing period for the Pittsburgh Pirates. They've been linked to a few names heading into the signing period, what among that group has stood out?We then shift to our thoughts on Caleb Ferguson signing, and how that may impact the bullpen this year. We also go more in depth on the bullpen and how we feel about it going into the season as it stands plus a non-roster invite we are watching in camp.Bucs On Deck is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Support the site by becoming a paid member, and get access to all of our premium content, including our Top 25 list with complete player write-ups and video breakdowns, which come out weekly.It will also give access to my player feature articles from on-site trips.We have monthly and yearly plans available, with the latter costing an average of $4.16/month. Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

The Washington Nationals have been busy the last day or so, adding a couple of free agents to the mix. Ironically enough, they are both former Nationals and Pirates.Josh Bell was traded from the Pirates to the Nationals in exchange for Eddy Yean and Will Crowe. After bouncing around with the San Diego Padres, Cleveland Guardians, Miami Marlins, and Arizona Diamondbacks, he returns to DC on a one-year $6 million contract.Bucs On Deck is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.He batted .249 with 19 home runs last year between the Marlins and Diamondbacks.Williams was brought back on a two-year, $14 million contract after electing free agency. He was having a strong season in 2024 until getting hurt. In 13 games, Williams posted a 2.03 ERA and a 6-1 record across 66.2 innings pitched.In our latest podcast episode, we answer some of the questions that you submitted the previous weekend. There were some great questions; tune in to listen to us discuss them.We also talk about some of our favorite moments from the 2024 season, as well as what we are looking forward to in 2025.Subscribe to the site and have our podcast sent directly to your email. We are also available on Apple Podcast and most other platforms. Support the site by becoming a paid member, and get access to all of our premium content, including our Top 25 list with complete player write-ups and video breakdowns, which come out weekly.It will also give access to my player feature articles from on-site trips.We have monthly and yearly plans available, with the latter costing an average of $4.16/month.Thank you for reading Bucs On Deck. This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

In our latest podcast episode, we discuss the Pirates' release of Trey Cabbage. We then follow up with talk of their latest trade, acquiring Enmanuel Valdez, and what impact that has on the roster.We wrap up with talk on the second base position in general, is it Nick Gonzales' spot to lose? Who could get in his way of being the Opening Day second baseman?Subscribe to Bucs on Deck for all your updates on the Pirates' organization. Consider upgrading to a paid member and get access to our premium features that include player features, video breakdowns, and our site rankings with full prospect write-ups. Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

We recap the 2024 Winter Meetings, which included the big trade the Pirates made to acquire Spencer Horwitz in exchange for three pitchers, one of which was Luis Ortiz.Then we talk about some early candidates the Pirates could take with the sixth overall pick in the 2025 draft.Finally, we talk about the Rule 5 draft and what still needs to be done in the offseason. Bucs On Deck is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

After taking a break for the holidays, Nola and Murphy are back to talk about the upcoming Winter Meetings. Should the Pirates take anyone? Are there any early favorites for the 2025 draft?We also talk about the offseason to this point, how it impacts the Pirates, and if a Salary Cap would help create parity.Subscribe to the site for all the latest updates on the Pirates' organization. Become a paid member right now and you can get a 20% discount off a yearly subscription. That averages out to just $3.33/month or less than $1 per paid feature.This site is 100% reader-supported, with no revenue coming from ads. If you enjoy our work, consider becoming a paid member today.You will not only help the site grow but also get access to our fantastic premium content, which includes our Top 25 rankings and full-player write-ups, video breakdowns, and any features that come from my on-site trips.Bucs On Deck is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

In our latest podcast episode, we discuss Paul Skenes winning the Rookie of the Year award and his actual chances of winning the Cy Young despite being a finalist.We then move over to the recently concluded Arizona Fall League and our takeaways from the Pirates players who participated.Finally, we look at Baseball America's recent Top 10 update for the Pirates system that also included a look at their potential 2028 lineup and rotation, as well as the best tools in the system.This site is 100% reader-supported, with no revenue coming from ads. If you enjoy our work, consider becoming a paid member today.You will not only help the site grow but also get access to our fantastic premium content, which includes our Top 25 rankings and full-player write-ups, video breakdowns, and any features that come from my on-site trips.Bucs On Deck is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

In our latest podcast episode, the offseason is officially underway, with the pending free agents officially hitting the market.We lead off our conversation with the addition of Trey Cabbage through waivers. What kind of fit can he provide and how the Pirates could be shifting focus on who they bring into the system?Then, we take a look at the free agent class and who makes sense for the Pirates. How best should the Pirates approach this offseason?We take a look at positions of focus and who might fit all on our latest podcast episode!This site is 100% reader-supported, with no revenue coming from ads. If you enjoy our work, consider becoming a paid member today.You will not only help the site grow but also get access to our fantastic premium content, which includes our Top 25 rankings and full-player write-ups, video breakdowns, and any features that come from my on-site trips.Thank you for reading Bucs On Deck. This post is public so feel free to share it.Follow us on Twitter!Murphy @__Murphy88Nola @NolaJeffy Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

In our latest podcast episode, we discuss the upcoming offseason for the Pittsburgh Pirates, as well as the important dates to follow, and there is no better person to bring on than Ethan Hullihen.Listen to Nola, Murphy, and Ethan talk about what the important dates are this offseason, including the Rule 5 and Draft Lottery.This site is 100% reader-supported, with no revenue coming from ads. If you enjoy our work, consider becoming a paid member today.You will not only help the site grow but also get access to our fantastic premium content, which includes our Top 25 rankings and full-player write-ups, video breakdowns, and any features that come from my on-site trips.Bucs On Deck is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thank you for reading Bucs On Deck. This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

In our latest podcast episode, we talk about the World Series matchup between the Yankees and Dodgers, with a prediction of the winner.We then talk about the Arizona Fall League, now two weeks in. Who has stood out? Finally, we talk about various Winter Leagues underway, and after the Endy Rodriguez injury last year, is sending players still worth it? Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

In the latest podcast episode, we discuss the Arizona Fall League, which has since kicked off. We take a look at the nine prospects the Pittsburgh Pirates sent to Arizona, including Termarr Johnson.We then wrap up the show with a few players from around the league who will be playing, not from the Pirates' organization.This site is 100% reader-supported, with no revenue coming from ads. If you enjoy our work, consider becoming a paid member today.You will not only help the site grow but also get access to our fantastic premium content, which includes our Top 25 rankings and full-player write-ups, video breakdowns, and any features that come from my on-site trips. Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

In our latest podcast episode, Nola and I discuss some of the top performers of the 2024 season. We also discuss some disappointing seasons, one thing to watch the last week of the season, and some early off-season storylines.Bucs On Deck is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

With the season winding down and only one affiliate left playing, Nola and Murphy discuss some potential names the Pirates could send to the Arizona Fall League, which begins in October.They then look back at the site's original top 25 prospect list and give some reactions after the entire season. They also look at their predictions on breakout and players to watch going into the year.Bucs On Deck is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Check out the Bucs on Deck podcast, releasing every Tuesday, even during the offseason! Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

Murphy and Nola are back with another podcast episode. This week, they discuss some pitching help the Greensboro Grasshoppers have received from late-season additions through promotions.Could Carlson Reed jump straight to Double-A to begin 2025? Is Garrett McMillan a legit relief prospect? They discuss both there.They then talk about the Pirates ‘moving on' from Junior Vizcaino as the Director of International Scouting. Was it the right move? Or is there something bigger afoot here?This site is 100% reader-supported, with no revenue coming from ads. If you enjoy our work, consider becoming a paid member today.You will not only help the site grow but also get access to our fantastic premium content, which includes our Top 25 rankings and full-player write-ups, video breakdowns, and any features that come from my on-site trips.Bucs On Deck is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

Nola and Murphy are back with another podcast episode with plenty to discuss. They lead off with the news that Oneil Cruz will shift to the outfield. How does that impact the rest of the season and beyond?They then shift to Henry Davis, who returns to Pittsburgh after Joey Bart lands on the injured list. Is this make-or-break time for the former first-overall pick? How has he looked in Triple-A, and will that translate to the majors this time?Finally, they discuss some minor league promotions, including 2022 first-round pick Termarr Johnson's move to Altoona. Who else is moving up to a new level?This site is 100% reader-supported, with no revenue coming from ads. If you enjoy our work, consider becoming a paid member today.You will not only help the site grow but also get access to our fantastic premium content, which includes our Top 25 rankings and full-player write-ups, video breakdowns, and any features that come from my on-site trips. Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

Development isn't linear, and sometimes, there is more than meets the eye when it comes to prospects. So, Nola and Murphy take a look at some players who, in the box score, are having down years but are still high on.They then look at some of the 2024 draft picks who have made their debuts and what has stood out about them. Six draft picks have made their official pro debuts; who has done well?This site is 100% reader-supported, with no revenue coming from ads. If you enjoy our work, consider becoming a paid member today.You will not only help the site grow but also get access to our fantastic premium content, which includes our Top 25 rankings and full-player write-ups, video breakdowns, and any features that come from my on-site trips. Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe

Another podcast episode with Nola and Murphy talking about the Triple-A debut of Bubba Chandler, what went well, and what to expect for the rest of the season. They then shift to the pending Top 25 prospects update, and who is the top-hitting prospect in the system—Termarr Johnson or Konnor Griffin?Finally, they discuss the Pirates' recent collapse and how deep the troubles go. Can the season be saved? Is it even worth saving without addressing the bigger issues the organization seems to have?This site is 100% reader-supported, with no revenue coming from ads. If you enjoy our work, consider becoming a paid member today.You will not only help the site grow but also get access to our fantastic premium content, which includes our Top 25 rankings and full-player write-ups, video breakdowns, and any features that come from my on-site trips. Get full access to Bucs On Deck at bucsondeck.substack.com/subscribe