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Pittsburgh Pirates: 5 Players That Won’t Be Back in 2015

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Pittsburgh Pirates: 5 Players That Won't Be Back in 2015

Pittsburgh Pirates
Frank Victores-USA Today Sports

The Pittsburgh Pirates will have some tough decisions to make this offseason after a second straight trip to the postseason. Money always seems to be the issue with the Pirates, meaning some stars and fan favorites will be out the door. Expect to see some major changes before the 2015 season begins.

5. Gaby Sanchez

Gaby Sanchez Pirates
Charles LeClaire-USA Today Sports

5. Gaby Sanchez

Gaby Sanchez Pirates
Charles LeClaire-USA Today Sports

The Pirates need a major change at first base. Ike Davis may be worth another shot, but I think the Pirates have seen enough of Gaby Sanchez. Limited power and a batting average just under .230 isn't going to cut it at a corner infield position, even in a platoon. The Pirates should give Andrew Lambo another shot at first base in 2015. This could mean Sanchez and Ike Davis are both gone.

4. Clint Barmes

Clint Barmes Pirates
Charles Leclaire-USA Today Sports

4. Clint Barmes

Clint Barmes Pirates
Charles LeClaire-USA Today Sports

It's nice to have a veteran around who can play well at shortstop, second base and third base. But it's time for the Pirates to say goodbye to Clint Barmes. He is a favorite of manager Clint Hurdle, which has lasted since Hurdle and Barmes were in Colorado. The Pirates would be better served to go with a younger option as a utility infielder, preferably someone with speed. The Pirates have a few options in their minor-league system.

3. Edinson Volquez

Edinson Volquez Pirates
Charles LeClaire-USA Today Sports

3. Edinson Volquez

Edinson Volquez Pirates
Charles LeClaire-USA Today Sports

The Pirates took a chance on Volquez by signing him to a one-year, million deal in the offseason. Now, the Pirates are reaping the benefits and Volquez will reap the benefits this offseason. He has been spectacular this year, posting a 3.04 ERA and leading the team with 13 wins. I have a feeling a team will overspend for Volquez this offseason and it won't be the Pirates.

2. Pedro Alvarez

Pedro Alvarez Pirates
Charles LeClaire-USA Today Sports

2. Pedro Alvarez

Pedro Alvarez Pirates
Charles LeClaire-USA Today Sports

It was a rough year for Pedro Alvarez and his struggles looked like they would cost the Pirates another chance at the playoffs. That is until manager Clint Hurdle benched the slugger in favor of Josh Harrison. His throwing errors, combined with a major slump at the plate, led to Alvarez's bench duty. He's still a big, natural power guy who will earn a big contract in the future. Look for the Pirates to trade him -- most likely to the AL.

1. Russell Martin

Russell Martin Pirates
Charles LeClaire-USA Today Sports

1. Russell Martin

Russell Martin Pirates
Charles LeClaire-USA Today Sports

Pittsburgh Pirates general manager Neal Huntington says they will do everything they can to re-sign Russell Martin. Despite that promise, I don't see Martin back in a Pirates' uniform in 2015. He's the emotional leader and calls a great game behind the plate. His great defense and solid offensive production will lead to some big offers. Expect him to get a three- or four-year deal worth about million a year from a larger market team.

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