We’ve stuck to our process, and in the long run, we’re going to see the benefits of it.”Ĭruz’s long-awaited promotion from Triple-A is among the most high-profile of what the Pirates hope will become a steady influx of young talented players over the next few seasons, though pitcher Quinn Priester, infielder Nick Gonzalez and catcher Henry Davis - all first-round picks - aren’t particularly close to touching the Roberto Clemente sign above the stairwell that leads to the home dugout.īy the time they arrive, the franchise may no longer have to rely on nostalgia and the beauty of its ballpark to get people inside. “Sometimes (our personnel decisions have been) frustrating to people, and I understand that,” Pirates manager Derek Shelton said.
Add that to signing third baseman Ke’Bryan Hayes to an eight-year extension and the unexpected jolt provided by outfielder Jack Suwinski - who made the leap from Double-A in late April as an emergency fill-in and is making a compelling case that he should never go back - and there’s tangible proof that Cherington’s top-to-bottom overhaul is gaining momentum. 61 during a brief two-game cameo last fall. 15 now, unlike last fall, when he donned No. Some, however, are seemingly here to stay.
