BRADENTON (SNN-TV) – The Pittsburgh Pirates invaded Pirate City in Bradenton today for the first time since 2020.
The Pirates finished last season 62-100 tying the Reds for last place in the NL Central. The Buccos enter this season and this Spring Training period with one big question looming: What is the status of All-Star outfielder Bryan Reynolds?
Entering his 5th MLB season, Reynolds is a mainstay of the Pittsburgh outfield, launched to stardom after being traded to Pittsburgh for his now teammate, Andrew McCutchen. Reynolds had requested a trade from the Pirates this offseason, leaving his future as a Pirate up in the air.
Earlier today, having reported to camp several days earlier than required, Reynolds stated that while his trade request still stands, he’s also willing to resume conversations about a long-term extension.
“I think I’ve been pretty open about it the past few years, my number one would be to sign an extension in Pittsburgh. I want that to be a fair deal for both sides, not one side or the other, not a crazy player and not a crazy team deal. So, that’s always been my number one.” – Bryan Reynolds
Derek Shelton, entering his third season as Pirates manager says he expects the same output from Reynolds. He doesn’t foresee this situation being a distraction, nor will it change the way Reynolds approaches his role.
“My expectation for him are exactly the same. For him to go out and play the way he does, he embodies what we’ve asked him to do, the way he plays hard. He’s worked hard this offseason on his swing, he’s worked hard on his defense, so my expectation is the same. He’s going to go out and be a really good baseball player.” – Derek Shelton
Position players are set to report to camp this coming Monday, with the Pirates first Spring Training game set for Saturday, February 25th at LECOM Park.