Pirates Mailbag: Ryan Borucki has impressed during Spring Training
For Ryan Borucki, the 2024 campaign was full of frustration. He was expected to be a key cog in the Pirates bullpen following the best season of his career, but injuries forced him to miss significant time. When he was healthy, he struggled mightily as the Pirates bullpen was one of the worst in baseball. Over the last few weeks, he has been fighting for a roster spot and flashing his 2023 form.Â
In eight appearances, the 30-year-old has posted a 1.13 ERA and struck out 11 batters. He has been nearly unhittable, holding opponents to a .143 batting average. Now fully healthy, he has been able to limit hard contact and has been one of the Pirates' best relievers.Â
For the Pirates, Borucki’s success has been an encouraging sign. The former 15th-round pick posted a 7.36 ERA last year in 14 games. He also struggled with his command, walking 13 batters and allowing two home runs. It was a dramatic change from the year before when he posted a career-best 2.45 ERA in 38 games.Â
Due to his success this spring the Pirates have a hard decision to make as they finalize their roster. Their other left-handed options include Caleb Ferguson and Tim Mayza, who signed one-year deals over the winter. They also have Joey Wentz, who was solid down the stretch after being claimed off waivers from the Tigers.Â
When Borucki is at his best, he gets a lot of ground ball outs. That’s what he has been able to do this spring, which has provided hope that a bounce-back could be on the horizon. He would most likely be used in a seventh-inning role.
Although the Illinois native has an uncertain future, he has impressed in spring training. If he makes the Opening Day roster and returns to his 2023 form, the Pirates bullpen would get a much-needed boost.Â