Pirates need to add a veteran starting pitcher

Ethan Coulehan argues that the Pittsburgh Pirates must target an experienced veteran starting pitcher during the upcoming offseason to bolster their young rotation. Despite finishing the season with an 82-80 record behind a promising core that includes Paul Skenes, Jared Jones, Braxton Ashcraft, and Bubba Chandler, Coulehan notes that injuries to Jones and Mitch Keller highlight the urgent need for rotation depth.

The writer recommends Tampa Bay Rays starter Nick Martinez, who posted a 3.10 ERA in 2026, alongside San Diego Padres right-hander Michael King as prime free-agent targets. Coulehan contends that the Pirates front office must spend money this winter to maximize the roster's potential rather than relying solely on young talent.