Trade Rumors Swirl Around Pirates' Catcher Joey Bart: Who Will Make the Move?
The baseball world is buzzing with speculation as the Pittsburgh Pirates and Houston Astros have reportedly discussed a potential trade involving catcher Joey Bart. But here's where it gets controversial: while the initial talks centered around Astros' third baseman Isaac Paredes, the focus has now shifted to Bart, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering what the future holds for the young catcher. And this is the part most people miss: the Pirates' recent signing of DH Marcell Ozuna for a one-year, $12MM contract may have indirectly paved the way for Bart's potential departure.
According to Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the trade discussions involving Paredes have 'since gone quiet.' However, Mackey revealed a fascinating detail: Joey Bart was part of the proposed package the Pirates would send to the Astros in exchange for the two-time All-Star. This tidbit has sparked curiosity about Bart's role in future trade negotiations. After all, his journey from a struggling top prospect in San Francisco to a productive part-time player in Pittsburgh has been nothing short of remarkable.
Over the past two seasons, Bart has posted a .745 OPS and a 110 wRC+ in 173 games, showcasing his offensive prowess. While his defensive metrics have been less impressive, they're acceptable given his above-average bat. With 1.3 FanGraphs WAR in consecutive seasons, Bart's total of 2.6 fWAR since 2024 places him among the top 25 catchers in the game. Here's the bold question: Is the Pirates' front office undervaluing Bart by considering a trade, or are they wisely capitalizing on his increased value?
Pirates General Manager Ben Cherington has expressed confidence in the team's catching depth, specifically mentioning former top prospects Henry Davis and Endy Rodríguez, as well as rookie Rafael Flores Jr. Cherington believes these players can handle a 'primary' catcher's workload, which raises the question: Can the Pirates afford to keep Bart, or is a trade inevitable? The team can't carry four catchers on their Opening Day roster, so something has to give.
The Astros remain a logical suitor for Bart. After losing Victor Caratini to the Twins in free agency, Houston's catching depth is thin. Their current 40-man roster includes starter Yainer Diaz and projected backup César Salazar, with non-roster invitee Carlos Pérez as the only other experienced option. Diaz, despite ranking seventh among catchers in defensive innings last year, started just 111 games, highlighting the need for a reliable backup. But here's the counterpoint: Would the Astros be better off pursuing a more established catcher, or is Bart the perfect fit for their needs?
The Rays and Red Sox are also potential suitors, with both teams reportedly seeking catching upgrades earlier this year. The Rays missed out on J.T. Realmuto in free agency, while the Red Sox have been actively looking to improve behind the plate. Bart's $2.53MM salary in his second year of arbitration eligibility, coupled with team control through 2027, makes him an attractive option.
As the trade rumors continue to swirl, one thing is clear: Joey Bart's future is at a crossroads. Will he remain a Pirate, or will he don a new uniform? We want to hear from you: Do you think the Pirates should trade Bart, or is he too valuable to let go? Let us know in the comments below, and join the debate!
