First off, it's good to be on Bucs Dugout again.  I don't have much computer access for the summer, and I don't like posting comments from a phone, so it's nice to read some of the comment threads now that I have a computer again for a few days.  It's an exciting time to be a Pirates fan, even if you're not the type to get excited about a .500 record.

It seems that the Pirates are in a position to make additions rather than subtractions this trading season.  While I think it would be monumentally stupid to move a frontline prospect for offensive help, there are other ways to add talent to the current Major League club.  I've seen the Beltran and Pena ideas, and I like them, but there's another player who could be similarly helpful for much less money: Juan Rivera.

Toronto DFA'd him today when they brought Travis Snider back to the Majors.  Rivera has an unimpressive overall line this year, and he's a defensive monstrosity.  That said, he owns a 169 wRC+ against left-handed pitching and a solid 118 figure for his career.  

Obviously, my thought is that he'd do exactly what Matt Diaz was signed up for but failed miserably at doing.  He could platoon with Presley when Tabata comes back, sending Jones to platoon at first base with Pearce.  Overbay could be gone, and the lineup would be significantly improved.

Rivera would probably come cheap.  I'm sure the Phillies and some other teams will be interested, but I think Neal Huntington would be remiss to not call Alex Anthopolous Rivera's agent.  He could provide immediate help for next to nothing in return.