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The Pirates are considering a trade involving second baseman Josh Harrison, reports Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports.
The 29-year old is guaranteed another $19 million from the extension he signed with the club in 2015, and is under team control through the 2020 season. After having a breakout 2014 season, recording a line of .315/.347/.490 and 13 home runs, Harrison’s bat fell short in 2016. Putting up just .283/.311/.388 line with only four homers, the versatile defenseman looked to regress a bit. However, Harrison did steal a career-high 19 bases this past season.
The news comes shortly after the Bucs failed to re-sign free agent Sean Rodriguez, losing the infielder to the Braves to the tune of a 2-year , $11.5 million deal. If the Pirates do part ways with Harrison, there’s no player slotted yet to replace him. Youngsters Alen Hanson and Adam Frazier could have potential if the Pirates seek an internal solution, but if they decide to sow their wild oats they could run into a big wall in the form of nearly every other team needing a solid man at second.
The trade market for second basemen is a fierce one, with Ian Kinsler and Brian Dozier being heavily sought after. If Pittsburgh makes the choice to deal Harrison, they better ensure a decent enough return for the defensive strongman they are expending.