THE BULLPEN

The calendar has turned to December and the MLB hot stove is heating up faster than a furnace in sub-zero temperatures. So far, your Pittsburgh Pirates have been minor players in the latest wheelings and dealings. They did not tender a qualifying offer to RH A.J. Burnett, making him a free agent. RF Marlon Byrd signed with Philly for 2 years at $16 million. 1B Justin Morneau is a free agent that appears on the move. On top of that, the Pirates designated both 1B/RF Garrett Jones and C Michael McKenry for assignment. The only significant move the Bucs have made, thus far, is trading a player to be named later for C Chris Stewart. Not really setting the world on fire, are they? Fear not, Pirates-faithful. There are still lots o' free agents on the market and the Pirates still have holes to fill. 1B James Loney, 1B/OF Corey Hart, SS Rafael Furcal, and 1B Mike Napoli are some of the names that are being tossed around in the Pirates direction. The MLB winter meetings begin next week in Orlando. There is still plenty of time and plenty of talent available for the Pirates to re-load for another playoff run in 2014. GM Neal Huntington is just biding his time, waiting for the next Francisco Liriano or Russell Martin to emerge. Can't wait for pitchers and catcher to report! Let's Go Bucs!!!!!