The Los Angeles Dodgers non-tendered left-handed relief pitcher Hong-Chih Kuo on Monday, making him a free agent.
The Pirates' southpaw situation is weak in the bullpen. Currently, the Buccos have Daniel Moskos and Tony Watson as left-handed options. Both showed flashes of capability last season, but should not be counted on if this team wants to make serious progress this season.
That begs the question: Would Hong-Chih Kuo be a good fit in the Steel City?
The 30-year-old Taiwanese pitcher struggled last season. He posted a 9.00 ERA while appearing in 40 games. He had 36 strikeouts in 27 innings pitched, but he also walked 23 batters over that span.
Those numbers may not be a testament to Kuo's ability. In 2010, Kuo had a 1.20 ERA in 56 appearances. He threw 60 innings, striking out 73 and walking 18. He had a 0.78 WHIP.
Overall, Kuo had a 3.73 ERA in his seven years playing in Dodger Blue. He threw 292.1 innings and struck out 345 batters. He has struggled with accuracy at times, but his power pitching is undeniable.
Kuo was on the third year of arbitration for his one-year, $2.73 million contract. He is an affordable option and would not have to provide much production to make his price tag worth paying.
The Pirates have signed Eric Bedard and traded for Casey McGehee this offseason, among other minor moves.
These signings give the idea Neil Huntingdon is chasing low-risk, high-reward players to compete for playing time next season.
If that's the case, Kuo is a perfect fit. His career numbers show great power from the left side and that's something the Pirates sorely lack in the bullpen.
Bringing in Kuo would allow Moskos and Watson to get work in the majors without huge expectations. Kuo would handle the important lefty-on-lefty situations.
If the Pirate front office is smart, they will take a serious look at Kuo in the next couple days. If they don't, someone else surely will.
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