The Pittsburgh Pirates are continuing to look for veteran stability to support their young core of talent. On Wednesday, the club officially reached an agreement with veteran right-hander Mike Clevinger on a minor league contract. The deal includes an invitation to major league spring training, providing the experienced starter with a clear path to compete for a spot on the Pirates' Opening Day roster.
This Mike Clevinger Pirates contract represents a low-risk, high-reward gamble for a Pittsburgh front office that is eager to provide depth to a rotation headlined by burgeoning superstars. By bringing Clevinger into camp as a non-roster invitee, the Pirates gain a veteran arm with a history of success at the major league level without the immediate pressure of a guaranteed roster spot or a significant financial commitment.
A Veteran Arm for the Pirates' Rotation
Mike Clevinger, 34, enters the Pirates organization looking to reclaim the form that once made him one of the more dependable starters in the American League. Known for his high-energy delivery and competitive fire, Clevinger has spent nine seasons in the big leagues, pitching for the Cleveland Guardians, San Diego Padres, and Chicago White Sox. Over his career, he has posted a respectable 3.50 ERA and a 1.21 WHIP across 132 starts.
The Pirates’ decision to bring in Clevinger is largely about insurance. While the team boasts one of the most exciting young rotations in baseball, injuries and innings limits are always a concern over a 162-game season. Clevinger’s presence in camp allows the coaching staff to evaluate his health and velocity before deciding if he fits into the long-term plans for 2025.
Overcoming a Difficult 2024 Campaign
The 2024 season was a challenging one for Clevinger, which explains why he was available on a minor league deal this late in the winter. Last season, Clevinger returned to the Chicago White Sox on a one-year deal but struggled to find his rhythm and stay on the mound. He made only four starts, posting a 0-3 record with a 6.75 ERA over 16 innings of work.
His season was cut short due to recurring issues with elbow inflammation, which eventually led to him being placed on the injured list in June. Before his 2024 struggles, however, Clevinger was a productive member of the White Sox rotation in 2023. During that season, he threw 131.1 innings with a 3.77 ERA, proving that he can still be an effective mid-to-back-of-the-rotation starter when healthy.
For the Pirates, the hope is that a full offseason of recovery and a fresh start in Bradenton will allow Clevinger to return to his 2023 form. If he can replicate those numbers, he could be a significant steal for a team looking to push for a Wild Card spot in the National League.
How Clevinger Fits into the Pirates' Pitching Plans
The Pittsburgh Pirates' starting rotation is currently anchored by National League Rookie of the Year finalist Paul Skenes and veteran Mitch Keller. Beyond those two, the Pirates have several intriguing options, including Jared Jones, Bailey Falter, and Luis Ortiz. However, the back end of the rotation remains a point of competition.
Clevinger will likely compete with several other pitchers during spring training for the fourth or fifth starter role. His competition includes:
- Bailey Falter: A reliable left-hander who ate significant innings for the club last year.
- Luis Ortiz: A versatile arm who showed flashes of brilliance both as a starter and a bulk reliever.
- Johan Oviedo: Returning from Tommy John surgery and looking to reclaim his spot.
Having a veteran like Clevinger in the mix provides the Pirates with a safety net. If one of the younger arms struggles with consistency or if an injury occurs during the grueling spring schedule, Clevinger offers a proven track record that younger prospects simply haven't established yet.
What to Watch for in Spring Training
As the Pirates head to Florida, all eyes will be on Clevinger’s velocity and command. Because his 2024 season was marred by elbow issues, scouts will be looking to see if his trademark fastball still has its life and if his breaking stuff remains sharp. A minor league contract means Clevinger will have to earn his way onto the 40-man roster, which often brings out the best in veteran competitors.
If Clevinger performs well in Grapefruit League action, the Pirates could easily clear a roster spot for him. Conversely, if he is not ready by the start of the season, the minor league nature of the deal allows the Pirates to keep him in Triple-A Indianapolis to continue building up his arm strength without burning a major league roster spot.
Ultimately, the addition of Mike Clevinger is a savvy baseball move. It addresses a need for depth, brings veteran leadership to a young clubhouse, and provides a low-stakes opportunity for a talented pitcher to revitalize his career in the Steel City.
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