PITTSBURGH — In a strategic move to bolster their struggling bullpen, the Pittsburgh Pirates have acquired seasoned right-handed pitcher Luke Weaver from the New York Mets ahead of Monday’s trade deadline.
Event Context
In an effort to break a decade-long postseason drought, the Pittsburgh Pirates have traded 21-year-old shortstop prospect Sammy Stafura to the New York Mets in exchange for 32-year-old pitcher Weaver. This acquisition marks an unexpected financial commitment from the usually budget-conscious Pirates, who have brought Weaver on board during the first year of his two-year, $22 million contract.
The timing of this trade comes as Pittsburgh’s pursuit of a National League wild card seems to be wavering, following a disappointing 2-7 record in their last nine games. The bullpen has struggled significantly, with a notable collapse in an 8-7 defeat against Cincinnati last Friday, where a two-run lead vanished in the eighth inning.
So far this season, the Pirates’ relief pitchers have missed 20 out of 42 save opportunities, leading to the release of Dennis Santana, who had shared closing duties with Gregory Soto early in the year.
The acquisition of Weaver marks the second major move for the Pirates ahead of the trade deadline, following their trade for former All-Star reliever Camilo Doval from the New York Yankees. Doval made his debut with Pittsburgh on Sunday, allowing one run in his first inning of work in a loss to Cincinnati.
Weaver has been a standout performer for the Mets, who are currently in last place. With a record of 2-1, a 1.84 ERA, and one save in 42 appearances this season, he has been a bright spot. After transitioning to a full-time bullpen role in 2024 with the Yankees, he boasts a career record of 13-8, a 2.90 ERA, and 13 saves across 168 games with both the Mets and Yankees.
While there is potential for Weaver to be utilized as a closer for Pittsburgh, it is more likely he will be deployed in high-leverage situations prior to the ninth inning. Gregory Soto has been performing well lately, showcasing a 1.59 ERA and three saves over 11 1/3 innings since July 2.
