The Pirates are taking a chance on a journeyman lefty, and it could be a game-changer—or a risky move. The Pittsburgh Pirates are set to sign left-handed pitcher Joe La Sorsa, according to Jon Morosi of MLB Network. But here’s where it gets interesting: it’s a minor league deal with an invitation to MLB Spring Training, meaning La Sorsa will have to prove himself all over again. But is this a smart gamble or a desperate move? Let’s dive into his story.
La Sorsa isn’t new to the big leagues—he’s pitched in parts of three MLB seasons with three different teams, starting his journey with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2023. Most recently, he was with the Cincinnati Reds, making five appearances last season. And this is the part most people miss: despite his travels, La Sorsa has shown flashes of brilliance in the minors. Drafted by the Rays in 2019, he quickly impressed, posting a 3.60 ERA across 31 appearances in 2021 while striking out nearly a batter per inning. His 2022 season was even more eye-catching, with an elite 36.3% strikeout rate earning him a Double-A promotion. Minor leaguers struggled against him, hitting just .191, and he finished with a stellar 2.33 ERA over 73 1/3 innings.
However, his MLB career has been a rollercoaster. After just two games with the Rays in 2023, he was designated for assignment, only to be claimed by the Nationals. In Washington, he logged 23 bullpen appearances but finished with a 4.76 ERA, despite limiting walks and home runs. But here’s the controversial part: was it a lack of opportunity, or is there a ceiling to his potential? After a brief return to the Nationals in 2024, he was released, only to be picked up by the Reds, where he struggled again, allowing eight earned runs and four home runs in just 6 2/3 innings.
Now, the Pirates are giving him another shot. Is this a redemption story in the making, or is La Sorsa’s MLB window closing? The minor league deal suggests the Pirates are hedging their bets, but if he can tap into that minor league dominance, he could be a steal. What do you think? Is Joe La Sorsa worth the risk, or is this just another stop on his journeyman career? Let us know in the comments!
