Pirates rumors: Pittsburgh 'pushing to move' Joel Hanrahan

The Pittsburgh Pirates are "pushing to move" right-handed closer Joel Hanrahan, reports Danny Knobler of CBS Sports:

People who have talked to the Pirates say they're pushing to move Hanrahan. Dodgers are one possibility.

— DKnobler (@DKnobler) December 17, 2012

Knobler notes that the Los Angeles Dodgers are one possible fit for Hanrahan. In responding to commenters below his initial tweet, Knobler agrees that the Pirates could be interested in one of the Dodgers’ two available veteran arms, Aaron Harang or Chris Capuano.

The Detroit Tigers have been tied to Hanrahan this winter as some believe they could pursue a veteran player to fill their void at closer. Like the Dodgers, Detroit has pitching to spare, as they’re reportedly taking calls on Rick Porcello and Drew Smyly. However, Knobler adds that he’s been told the Tigers are not interested in the right-hander.

The Pirates recently re-signed veteran late-inning reliever Jason Grilli who could be shifted into the role of closer if Hanrahan is dealt.

Last season for the Pirates Hanrahan maintained an ERA of 2.72 over 63 appearances. Over the last four seasons with Pittsburgh the 31-year-old owns an ERA of 2.59 with 10.4 strikeouts and 3.8 walks per nine innings.