Pirates Trade Kevin Newman to Reds

Story by Yinzer Crazy Pirates Contributor Baron Dionis

Last night the Pirates traded SS Kevin Newman to the Cincinnati Reds for RHP Dauri Moreta.

The former 19th overall pick in the 2015 MLB Draft, is now leaving Pittsburgh after being with the organization for seven years. 

In his four year MLB career, Newman has been a solid middle infielder for the Pirates. His best year was his rookie season where he batted .308 with 12 HR and 64 RBI. This kind of production has not repeated from Newman. 2022 was his best season since 2019 where he batted .274 with 2 HR, 24 RBI, .316 OBP, .372 SLG, and a 94 wRC+. Not striking out and good defense has always been Newman's best abilities.

Dauri Moreta is a 26 year old, right handed reliever from the Dominican Republic. Moreta made his MLB debut in 2021 and looks to battle for a spot in the Pirates 2023 bullpen.

In 2022, Moreta threw 38.1 innings and posted a 5.40 ERA with 5.80 FIP, 39 SO, 12 BB, 1.17 WHIP, 1 SV, and 1 HLD. Although his ERA doesn’t look good, his xERA (expected ERA) was 4.02. He limits the base runners, but allows too many homeruns, 10 in 2022. 

Overall, the Pirates got rid of a player that had no future in Pittsburgh and got a reliever that has a lot of potential and can help the Pirates get better next season.