PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – A look at Pirates players from last year and the potential for them to be a part of a hopeful Bucco resurgence in two or three years.
Adam Frazier is a two-time finalist for a gold glove at second base having played different positions during his five years with the Pirates. Always with a positive energy and a usually positive bat.
Will the experienced Frazier be a part of this rebuild?
CONTRACT—Signed for this season at 4.3 million, making him the second highest paid Pirate. There will be another arbitration year next season and then Frazier can be a free agent in 2023.
HISTORY—Frazier was the Pirates sixth round pick out of Mississippi State in 2013. The left-hitter spent a year at every level and in 2016 after a quick start in AAA, played his final 66 games in the majors.
OUTPUT—During his five years in the majors, Frazier has played in 510 games with a respectable .273 average, .336 OBP. The 29-year-old has played every outfield position and everywhere on the infield except first base and catcher. He's even been a designated hitter a few times. He suffered as the team did in 2020 with by far his lowest average (.230) of his career, but did hit 7 homers in 58 games, driving in 23 (tied for team lead). The previous three seasons, Frazier hit .276, .277 and .278.
OUTLOOK—Judging from the bulk of his career, Frazier should hit in the high .270s. He has increased his power numbers every season and should hit high in the order as the Bucs starting second baseman.
NO—Frazier will likely be traded before he hits his free agency year, especially if he gets off to a good first half start and has trade value. If the Pirates were in win-now mode, Frazier is a good piece. It's more likely he will be valuable to a contender as a utility player at worst.
