When the Yankees signed Cuban phenom Juan Miranda, slugger Jason Giambi was in the final two years of his contract. It seemed possible that by the 2009 season, Miranda would be ready to at least have a part-time role with the Yankees. Miranda has done well for the Yankees in three minor league seasons, posting a .280 average with 47 home runs and a .366 on-base percentage. However, with Mark Teixeira signed for the next eight seasons, it is very unlikely that Miranda will receive any considerable playing time in a Yankee uniform.
In his second full year at Triple-A Scranton, he hit a career best .290 with 19 home runs. If the Yankees were to move him this off season, now would be the time to call him up to get him a couple at-bats, so teams could see him face major league pitching.
The Pirates could pursue Juan Miranda. Miranda's bat would be a nice compliment to some of the Pirates' emerging hitters, and would likely come a cheap price. Other teams that could take a look at the 26-year old include the Indians, Giants, and Athletics.