The Pittsburgh Pirates might discuss a new deal with shortstop Ronny Cedeno, according to Ben Nicholson-Smith of MLB Trade Rumors. The Pirates declined Cedeno’s $3 M option, paying the $200 K buyout instead. We’ve also heard that they’re looking at Ramon Santiago, so clearly the team is prioritizing defense at shortstop over added offensive production.
Middle infielders have been going quickly on the open market. Jamey Carroll just signed a two year deal for $6.75 M with the Twins. Mark Ellis signed a two year, $8.75 M deal with the Dodgers. Aaron Hill signed a two year deal for $11 M. John McDonald signed a two year deal for $3 M. Out of those players, only Carroll and McDonald could be considered for the shortstop position. It seems that the Pirates will have to give out a two year deal for anyone they want to get, although if they’re looking for a defensive option I’d expect the price to be closer to McDonald rather than Ellis, Hill, or Carroll. My guess is that someone like Cedeno or Santiago will cost somewhere around two years and $4-5 M total.
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