After a strong home stand against two teams with winning records, the Pirates experienced some disappointing performances from their relievers. Ben Heller gave up 11 earned runs in two innings, and Kyle Nicolas allowed many base runners, leading to the Pirates losing two winnable games. However, they still managed a 4-2 record during the home stand.
These series highlighted that while the Pirates’ bullpen has some reliable arms, it also needs reinforcements. Acting quickly, Ben Cherington added another pitcher to the mix, signing right-hander Jake Woodford to a minor league contract, as reported by Robert Murray.
Though not a high-profile signing, this move provides crucial pitching depth for both the Triple-A and major league rosters. The Triple-A team also made two other moves: promoting Braxton Ashcraft and releasing Wily Peralta.
Woodford, recently released by the Chicago White Sox after struggling in two major league starts, also had a tough time in Triple-A, where he was used as a starter. In Triple-A this season, he posted a 1-3 record with a 5.26 ERA over 49.2 innings, striking out 42 batters. Opponents hit .269 against him, with a WHIP of 1.39.
While his recent stats as a starter are underwhelming, Woodford has a history of being an effective bullpen arm. He had a strong season in 2021 and an even better one in 2022, where he went 4-0 with a 2.23 ERA over 48.1 innings, striking out 24 batters. Opponents hit .244 against him with a 1.12 WHIP.
His recent struggles stem from command issues, with his walk rate increasing from 5.9% in 2022 to 9.9% in 2023, and it remained high at 10.9% in the majors in 2024. If he can regain his ability to induce soft contact, he could return to his 2022 form.
Although this might seem like a low-cost signing, bringing Woodford into the organization is crucial, especially with ongoing injuries. The Pirates are already missing three starting pitchers, and Woodford has been most effective out of the bullpen. With no clear return dates for Martin Perez or Quinn Priester, Woodford might fill a rotation spot temporarily.
While Jake Woodford may not make an immediate impact on the Pirates’ roster, he adds significant value to the organization.
