Though the Pittsburgh Pirates have been relatively quiet on the Major League free agent front, general manager Ben Cherington has been working behind the scenes to enhance the organization's depth. As of the halfway point of December, the Pirates have signed a group of minor-league free agents who hold the potential to make their way to Pittsburgh during the 2025 season. Let's take a closer look at these signings.

Uncovering the Hidden Gems in the Pirates' Minor-League Roster

RHP Tanner Rainey

Tanner Rainey has amassed an impressive 198 appearances across seven big-league seasons. The last six of these have been with the Washington Nationals. Throughout his career, this right-hander has a record of 5-10 with a 5.23 ERA. He has struck out 236 batters and walked 125 in 189.1 innings. In 2022, he achieved a career-high 12 saves with the Nationals. However, last season was a bit of a struggle for him as he only punched out 44 batters in 51 innings and finished with a 4.76 ERA in 50 appearances. Despite a dip in fastball velocity in 2024, the Pirates are optimistic that he can regain some of that lost speed and provide valuable depth to the bullpen. The bullpen is a constantly changing entity, much like a blackjack dealer shuffling cards in Las Vegas.There is a sense of hope within the Pirates organization that Rainey can bounce back and make a significant impact. His experience and potential are seen as assets that could strengthen the team in the long run.

RHP Hunter Stratton

After being non-tendered last month, the Pirates brought back Hunter Stratton on a minor-league deal. Stratton unfortunately underwent season-ending surgery on his patella tendon in his left knee in August and is expected to be sidelined for an extended period. It could be anywhere from Opening Day to closer to the middle of the season before he is able to return to the field.Prior to his injury, Stratton was a reliable presence in the Pirates' bullpen. He went 2-1 with a 3.58 ERA in 36 appearances, demonstrating excellent command. His first-career save came on March 31 against the Marlins in Miami, which was a significant moment for him. The Pirates are looking forward to his recovery and his potential contribution to the team once he is back in action.

INF/OF Nick Solak

Nick Solak did not appear in the Major Leagues this past season, but he has played significant parts of five seasons from 2019-23. In 2021, he reached a career-high with 127 games. He was originally a second-round pick of the New York Yankees in 2016.For his career, Solak has a slash line of.252/.327/.372 with 35 doubles, three triples, 21 home runs, 93 RBIs and 19 stolen bases in 255 games. Defensively, he is a versatile player who has appeared in games at first base, second, third, and in both left and center field. His ability to play multiple positions gives the Pirates more flexibility and options on the field.

RHP Carson Fulmer

The Pirates agreed to a minor-league deal with right-hander Carson Fulmer, as first reported by FanSided's Robert Murray on Friday. Fulmer spent time in the Pirates' organization in 2020 but did not make it to the big leagues.Last season with the Angels, Fulmer, who turned 31 on Friday, pitched fairly well despite an 0-5 record. In 37 appearances and eight starts, he posted a 4.15 ERA in 86.1 innings pitched. He was the eighth-overall pick in the 2015 draft out of Vanderbilt.Fulmer's experience and talent make him a promising addition to the Pirates' minor-league system. The team is hopeful that he can continue to develop and potentially make his way to the big leagues in the future.These minor-league free agent signings by the Pittsburgh Pirates represent a strategic move to build depth and add potential to the organization. Each player brings unique skills and experiences that could have a positive impact on the team in the years to come.