Veteran infielder Todd Frazier has agreed to a minor-league deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates, one that will include an invite to major league spring training. Both Kevin Kernan and Kevin Williams of Shore Sports Network have reported on the pact.
A two-time All-Star, Frazier split the pandemic-shortened 2020 season with the Texas Rangers and New York Mets, marking his second stint in Queens. The 2020 campaign wasn't an especially memorable one for Frazier, as he slashed .236/.302/.382 with four home runs and 12 RBIs in 157 at-bats.
Frazier - who has also spent time with the Cincinnati Reds, Chicago White Sox and New York Yankees - will have to stand out in spring training to earn a chance to continue his major league career. The lowly Pirates seemingly give him a real chance to make the major league roster. After the trade of Josh Bell this past offseason, Frazier could get some at-bats at first base against left-handed pitchers, with the left-handed hitting Colin Moran likely to get the bulk of the at-bats at the position. Without the DH returning to the National League in 2021, having capable pinch hitters will take on an even greater importance as well.
Realistically, the Pirates, who arguably have the worst roster in the sport, aren't going to compete for the postseason in 2021. From the Pirates perspective, they're probably hopeful that Frazier, long viewed as one of the better clubhouse presences in the sport, will be a positive force for Derek Shelton's team. Frazier, now 35, could become an intriguing trade deadline addition for a contending team if he makes the Pirates out of spring training and is productive.
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