Pirates not in market for top-end relievers

There's no question that the Pirates need relief help heading into the 2010 season. But don't expect the club to be players for the biggest relief names available. General manager Neal Huntington is adament in his belief that he can build a bullpen through signing Minor League free agents or relievers not demanding top dollar in the Major League free agent market.

"As we look at the reliever market, history dictates that it is not smart to spend $3-4 million on a middle reliever," Huntington said. "Our focus is going to be more on the borderline-type guys that may or not get $3-4 million or may not even get a Major League contract. We've got an opportunity where we can sell a chance to come in and compete for a chance on the Major League club."

As things stand now, the Pirates do not have any left-handed relievers slotted into next year's bullpen. However, that doesn't necessarily mean that a lefty arm is on top of the wishlist. The Pirates went through part of 2009 without a lefty in the bullpen and management is convinced that such an imbalance is not an issue. Huntington's priority is seeking out pitchers who can be effective against right-handed and left-handed hitters rather than one-side specialists. 

-- Jenifer Langosch