The Pittsburgh Pirates came to terms with their last two arbitration-eligible players Thursday, signing second baseman Neil Walker and starting pitcher James McDonald to one-year deals.
Walker, who had asked for $3.6 million, signed for $3.3 million, after the Pirates countered his initial request with an offer of $3 million.
McDonald, who had asked for $3.4 million, signed for $3.025 million, following the Pirates initial counter offer of $2.65 million.
The two signings bring the Pirates estimated payroll for the upcoming season to roughly $75 million, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Bill Brink. That mark is a substantial increase from the $62.4 million team total in 2012.
That marked increase has led to speculation that a trade may be on the horizon. Notably, first baseman/corner outfielder Garrett Jones and his $4.5 million salary, as MLB.com's Tom Singer explains.
Brink also hinted as the possibility of Jones being on the chopping block as the season draws nearer.
Going into spring training, the Pirates have four players with the capability of playing first base vying for playing time in Jones, Gaby Sanchez, Clint Robinson and Jerry Sands. The added depth at the position and the substantial bump in monetary intake has given credence to the rise in speculation.
Yet, Jones produced at a near-career level last season. His 27 home runs were a career high and his 86 RBI tied a personal best. Jones finished the year with a 1.9 WAR, according to Fangraphs. On the flip side, he also wound up with a minus-6.3 fielding rating.
The uncertainty lies in whether or not Jones can duplicate his 2012 numbers or if he will revert back to the 2011 form that saw him hit a lowly .243.
Pitchers and catchers report to spring training in Bradenton, Fla. on Feb. 11 while the rest of the team joins them on Feb. 14.
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