Batting Order: The Pirates major strength is their 1 through 4 hitters, as they've got a collection of possible all-stars filling those spots. After that, Kevin Young is a fast player capable of suitably filling the fifth spot. Unfortunately, there's a lot of risk in the bottom half of the lineup. Ramirez and Walker should do adequately, but whether Martin will smack enough extra base hits to justify his low OBP will be a key question for the Bucs. They punted the SS position, but at least Meares has the chart to punish pitchers if they give him a chart. Overall, a truly frightening top of the lineup is supplemented by mediocrity, but they've got potential to put up a lot of runs.
Rotation: AJ Burnett provides a much needed ace, with Ritchie and McDonald serves as average #2 and 3 starters. Wandy Rodriguez isn't spectacular, but at least he'll be able to chew up innings. The performance of Ritchie and McDonald is probably going to define Pittsburgh's success, as they appear weaker on paper than the competition from St. Louis and Milwaukee.
Bullpen: A good unit led by two great pitchers. Hanrahan is a fantastic closer and should garner all star consideration. McCutchen is a valuable set-up and long relief man, especially considering the 5 IP of McDonald. Sauerbeck is servicable, especially for his 110 points. Overall, dependable in close games.
Overall: It's easy to imagine several Pittsburgh players finding their way onto the NL all star roster, but harder to see them making a playoff push. The lack of hitting depth is a concern that could prove costly, as is their slightly substandard rotation compared to their fellow NL Central teams. If they get production and solid pitching from their question marks, put them in the running for a playoff berth, but in the preseason, it's safe to pencil them in for a losing season.
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