Three unconventional external closer candidates the Pirates should consider for 2026
While the Pittsburgh Pirates' offseason focus has been on bolstering their offense, their bullpen remains a critical area of improvement. Since trading two-time All-Star David Bednar to the Yankees, the Pirates have relied on setup man Dennis Santana, who has shown promise with a 2.18 ERA, 0.87 WHIP, and 16 saves. However, some underlying metrics raise concerns. Santana's strikeout rate (22.2%) and control (16th-percentile barrel rate, 32nd-percentile groundball rate) suggest he may not be the long-term solution. The Pirates should explore alternative options to strengthen their bullpen.
Here are three unique external closer candidates the Pirates should consider:
- Seranthony Dominguez
The free-agent relief market is competitive, and the Pirates have missed out on top talent. However, Seranthony Dominguez stands out as a viable option. After a strong first half with the Orioles, he was traded to the Blue Jays, contributing to their World Series run. Dominguez's performance improved across the board, with career-highs in innings pitched (62 2/3) and strikeouts (79), and a 3.16 ERA. While control has been an issue, his walk rate (13.8%) and ability to maintain an excellent whiff rate (33.3%) by avoiding the middle of the plate are impressive. Dominguez's experience as a closer (40 career saves) and strong postseason record (1.86 ERA in 29 playoff games) make him an attractive option. He is projected to sign a modest two-year, $18 million contract, which would be a wise investment for the Pirates' bullpen.
- Jeremiah Estrada
The Pirates may need to explore the trade market for bullpen reinforcements. San Diego's Jeremiah Estrada is an enticing prospect. Estrada has been a standout reliever for the Padres, with a 3.22 ERA, .199 batting average allowed, and a 36.3% strikeout rate since joining the team in 2024. His unique delivery, featuring the highest release point in MLB (66 degrees) and an 83rd-percentile extension, makes his fastball (98 MPH) virtually unhittable at the top of the zone. Estrada's splitter, learned from Cy Young-winning closer Eric Gagne, is a devastating weapon against both right- and left-handed batters. While he lacks extensive closing experience (four career saves), his dynamic pitching and potential as a long-term late-inning solution make him a valuable addition to the Pirates' bullpen.
- Bryan Abreu
Another trade option is Houston's Bryan Abreu, who has a year of team control left. Abreu has been a consistent setup man for the Astros, with a pristine 2.40 ERA and 1.12 WHIP over the past three seasons. His two-pitch arsenal, featuring a four-seam fastball and slider, has been highly effective, with batters hitting sub-.200 and slugging sub-.300 against each pitch. Abreu's postseason experience is notable, having pitched in 21 playoff games with a 2.49 ERA and 35 strikeouts. With a projected salary of $5.9 million in 2026, Abreu is a cost-effective option who could provide a short-term boost to the Pirates' bullpen, especially with his familiarity with new Pirates pitching coach Bill Murphy.
