The Latest Pirates Buzz

The Pirates continue to "kick the tires" on Rays pitcher Jeff Niemann. They are currently waiting for the asking price to drop. The Rays are asking for an infield prospect along with prospect Robbie Grossman. The Pirates have no interest in moving Grossman. The Rays are looking at Pirates prospects from the Double-A level down.

The Pirates have had significant interest in Niemann since last summer's trade deadline when the Rays offered Niemann and a lower tier prospect for Jason Bay.

The 6-foot-9 Niemann went 2-2 with a 5.06 ERA in five games, two starts last season. Niemann, 26, was the Rays’ first-round pick in the 2004, the fourth overall selection, and he is currently out of options. The Pirates had a scout in attendance for Niemann's minor league start on Monday. Niemann tossed six scoreless innings.

The Pirates have also inquired about Rays pitcher Jason Hammel but Niemann is their primary target right now. Brewers, Padres, Indians, Rockies, are among six or seven teams in on Niemann and Hammel.

Pittsburgh is currently eyeing three infielders as the team is hopeful to add a second right-handed hitting reserve infielder before Monday.

The Pirates are currently in talks with