Pirates are 'actively' in aggressive trade talks with MLB teams for help at one position

The Pittsburgh Pirates are not in first place in the NL Central, but they're very much a contender, and likely looking to spend at this year's trade deadline.

What the Pirates will look to add to their roster this season at the deadline is a fascinating question. While an upgrade over Marcell Ozuna would make a lot of sense, the Pirates are in active talks over a different position group.

According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Pirates are reportedly in aggressive talks with MLB teams over adding bullpen help this season ahead of the trade deadline.

Pirates in active trade talks for bullpen help

"The team, which on Monday traded righty Justin Lawrence to the Minnesota Twins for cash considerations, is actively pursuing bullpen help," Rosenthal reports.

While it's not a surprise that the Pirates are interested in adding to their bullpen, this report is still noteworthy as it reveals the team is in active talks to add help at the position already.

Rosenthal shared that one MLB executive said of the Pirates' interest in bullpen help, "That's not news." But that same executive also took note of the Pirates' aggressiveness in seeking out bullpen help.

With nearly two months to go until the trade deadline, it's interesting that the Pirates have such a strong link to reliever help already.

MORE: Tarik Skubal being traded by Tigers would help him in free agency

There are some interesting names worth considering for the Pirates, with Boston Red Sox closer Aroldis Chapman and reliever Garrett Whitlock, along with Colorado Rockies reliever Antonio Senzatela, as a couple of interesting options for the Pirates.

Gregory Soto hasn't been bad this season, and the bullpen overall is more so in the middle of the pack, ranking 19th in fWAR in 2026.

But if they want to do some damage in the postseason, then they're going to need to upgrade their bullpen this season by the deadline.

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