John Van Benshoten and Bucs part ways

Former first-round Draft pick John Van Benschoten has informed the Pirates that he is not interested in resigning with the organization this offseason. Van Benschoten recently filed for Minor League free agency.

A fresh start certainly seems necessary for the 6-foot-4, former Kent State offensive standout who never stuck with the Pirates as a pitcher despite numerous opportunities these last few years. In 2008, the right-hander made nine appearances (five starts) for the Bucs. He allowed 26 earned runs in 22 1/3 innings while walking 20 and striking out 21. The Pirates experimented by moving Van Benschoten into the bullpen in Triple-A, but still did not see the results they were looking for.

Van Benschoten is currently pitching in Mexico, where he has gone 1-3 with a 5.16 ERA in six starts.

As for any movement on the Major League free agent front, the Pirates continue to wait for the first-tier of free agents to fall. While GM Neal Huntington has not disclosed which free agents the Pirates are having discussions with, no signings appear imminent.

-- Jenifer Langosch