The Pittsburgh Pirates have made a significant move in signing two-time All-Star catcher Yasmani Grandal. The 35-year-old veteran agreed to a one-year contract worth $2.5 million, providing the team with much-needed depth at the catcher position. With the unfortunate news of catcher Endy Rodriguez undergoing Tommy John surgery and ruled out for the 2024 season, the Pirates were in need of a reliable replacement.
Grandal’s addition to the team brings experience and skill behind the plate. His career batting average of .237 may not be the highest, but his ability to provide power at the plate cannot be understated. With eight home runs and 33 RBIs in 118 games with the Chicago White Sox in 2023, Grandal showed that he still has what it takes to make an impact offensively.
Henry Davis, the first overall pick in the 2021 MLB draft, has been a bright spot for the Pirates. Despite primarily playing as a right fielder in his rookie season, the team believes he has the potential to become an everyday catcher. The addition of Grandal will not only provide a reliable option behind the plate but also give Davis the opportunity to continue developing defensively.
Throughout his 12-year career playing for various teams, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, Milwaukee Brewers, and Chicago White Sox, Grandal has established himself as a solid contributor. He has been selected to the All-Star team twice, in 2015 and 2019, and has displayed his power-hitting abilities by hitting over 20 home runs in a season five times.
The Pittsburgh Pirates’ decision to sign Yasmani Grandal is a move that not only addresses an immediate need but also provides the team with a valuable asset both on and off the field. As they look to compete in a competitive division, Grandal’s experience and leadership will surely benefit the young core of players on the roster. With a renewed sense of optimism, the Pirates are setting themselves up for a promising season ahead.