5 Options For the Pittsburgh Pirates If Russell Martin Leaves

The oldest option at catcher for the Pirates is A.J. Pierzynski. At 37 years old, Pierzynski has been around the league and back, but there's still some life left in his legs. This past season, he played a minor role for the St. Louis Cardinals, where he was able to fill in for an injured Yadier Molina. Signing Pierzynski wouldn’t be the best move for the Pirates’ team success, but it would be a cost-effective platoon option for one season.

John Buck spent nine games with the Pirates after the 2013 trade deadline. He was Martin’s backup for the end of the season and into the playoffs but was just a rental player. He was not much of a factor in the league this season, but with the shallow pool of free agents at the catcher position, Buck should find a new home. Though he is in the twilight of his career, he could easily fill in as a platoon partner for Stewart.

After spending seven years with the Pirates, Ryan Doumit moved on and played for the Minnesota Twins and Atlanta Braves. He is a free agent once again, and if Martin decides to move on, Pittsburgh could look to bring Doumit back. He was always a fan favorite in Pittsburgh, and the team could sign him for cheap. At his age and with his injury history, it is hard to see Doumit as a starting catcher, but he could be a platoon player for the Pirates.

As far as platoon catchers go, Nick Hundley might be the best free agent option for the Pirates. Hundley had a good season filling in for an injured Matt Wieters with the Baltimore Orioles. His career stats are decent, but they had taken a downswing until the Orioles decided to give him a chance. While Hundley won’t be the answer at the backstop for the Pirates, he is a solid fill-in player for Pittsburgh until younger stars are ready.

Tony Sanchez is a former first-round pick who the Pirates are still hoping will be the catcher of the future in Pittsburgh. Up until now, Sanchez has not lived up to his potential, and it is time for him to step into Martin’s position. Last season Sanchez spent some time in the majors but was not seeing enough playing time, so he was sent back to Triple-A. The Pirates need Sanchez to realize his potential as soon as possible if Martin does leave.