Pirates Eye Early Trade to Bolster Bullpen

The Pittsburgh Pirates are facing significant struggles with their bullpen, leading to a series of late-game meltdowns and missed opportunities. Despite the challenges, the trade market for notable relievers has not yet heated up, as reported by ESPN's Buster Olney. However, there may still be a chance for the Pirates to make a strategic addition to their relief corps.

One potential target is Enyel De Los Santos, a familiar face for the Pirates after he played seven games with them in 2021. Currently, De Los Santos boasts impressive stats, including a 3.20 ERA, 2.23 FIP, and 1.03 WHIP over 25.1 innings this season. His strikeout rate stands at an impressive 24.9%, and he has also achieved career-best marks with a 4.9% walk rate and a low 0.36 HR/9 ratio. Though primarily a middle-inning reliever, his good performance could provide much-needed support for Pittsburgh, even if he doesn’t step into a high-leverage role.

In exchange, the Houston Astros could receive Connor Wietgrefe, a promising left-handed pitcher drafted in the seventh round in 2024. Wietgrefe had a solid first full season in the minors, posting a 3.10 ERA, but his performance has dipped in 2026 with a 4.81 ERA over 48.1 innings. Despite this, he remains a player with potential, thanks to his control and ability to pitch effectively, even if he lacks elite velocity.

The Pirates would likely welcome De Los Santos, who offers an affordable option at $1.6 million this season while providing a bridge between starters and high-leverage situations. The Astros, on the other hand, might be more cautious, weighing their options in the trade market before committing to this deal. Given Wietgrefe's status as a borderline top prospect, they could see value in holding onto him.

As the trade deadline approaches, the Pirates need to take decisive action to improve their struggling bullpen, and this proposed deal could be a step in the right direction. With the relief pitching market still developing, the Pirates may find opportunities with relievers whose value is unlikely to skyrocket in the coming weeks.