Thu Jan 09 17:20:00 UTC 2025: **Pittsburgh Pirates Sign Left-Handed Reliever Caleb Ferguson to One-Year, $3 Million Deal**
PITTSBURGH, PA – January 9, 2025 – The Pittsburgh Pirates have bolstered their bullpen, signing left-handed reliever Caleb Ferguson to a one-year, $3 million contract, pending a physical. The 28-year-old Ferguson, who spent the 2024 season with the New York Yankees and Houston Astros, joins the team after the departure of three left-handed relievers in free agency.
Ferguson, a client of Excel Sports Management, possesses a strong track record, having pitched 261 2/3 innings in his major league career with a 3.68 ERA. While his 2024 ERA (4.64) was slightly higher, advanced metrics suggest that bad luck contributed to the inflated number, with his FIP and SIERA closer to his career average. His strengths include a high strikeout rate (around 27%) and a ground ball rate above average (around 45%).
The Pirates are not expected to need a corresponding roster move to accommodate Ferguson. While primarily a reliever, the team plans to stretch him out during spring training, exploring the possibility of a move to the starting rotation. Ferguson has minor league experience as a starter and possesses a diverse pitch mix. This strategy reflects a recent trend in baseball of converting relievers into starters, although the success rate varies.
The Pirates’ need for a left-handed reliever is evident, with only one other lefty reliever currently on the roster. However, their rotation is already strong, making a starting role less certain for Ferguson. Most likely, he will serve as a valuable addition to the bullpen, possibly taking on a setup role. His career splits show effectiveness against both left- and right-handed hitters, making him a versatile option. The Pirates’ decision to explore a starting role for Ferguson reflects a calculated gamble, given the high cost of starting pitchers in the current market.
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