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Pirates Closing In On Deal For Clint Barmes

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Ken Rosenthal thinks so. UPDATE by Charlie: Jon Heyman says the Pirates are closing in on a deal with Barmes for about two years and $11 million. That would be a reasonable price given Barmes' defense, and it would be hard to complain too much, given the Pirates' need for a shortstop. But a multi-year deal for the age-33 and -34 seasons for someone like Barmes, who already hits pretty poorly, worries me a bit. If he doesn't hit, and I think that's awfully likely (he's had some nice-looking offensive seasons, but they're mostly superficial, given that he's been hitting in Colorado and Houston), it's going to be very annoying to be on the hook for $5.5 million in 2013. I don't hate this move for two years and $11 million, but given that the Pirates still have huge holes elsewhere, I probably would have just taken Ronny Cedeno's option and concentrated on fixing their other problems. Of course, Barmes appears willing to sign for a price that's at least reasonable; the Bucs might or might not be able to find a starting pitcher, say, who's willing to do that. I'm sure Clint Hurdle having managed Barmes with the Rockies probably helped. UPDATE by Charlie: Oh wow. Look what Pat at WHYGAVS found. Every one of Barmes' homers last year went to left field. Good luck trying to hit at PNC Park, Mr. Barmes. UPDATE by Charlie: It will be two years, $10.5 million. It's still not done yet.