It has been well noted for weeks that the Pirates had a strong interest in reliever Will Ohman. The Pirates initial offer in February was worth $1.1 million per season which was rejected but the Post-Gazette reported last night talks have continued between the two sides.
According to sources, Ohman has a strong desire to play on the West Coast and there’s speculation that Pirates are just being used as a ploy by Ohman’s agent to drive up the price for other suitors
Sources indicate the Pirates have increased their earlier offer from $1.1 million to

$1.8 – $2.1 million per season. The Post – Gazette reports, an option year is also being discussed.
Ohman is believed to be seeking atleast $2 million per season and there’s speculation that Ohman’s representatives countered asking for $2.3 million from the Pirates. It remains to be seen if the Pirates will go that high as they may be negotiating against their-selves if they go above $2 million.
The Giants and Dodgers are the two west coast teams that remain in the mix along with the Florida Marlins.
Ohman had a solid season with the Atlanta Braves last year, going 4-1 with one save and a 3.68 ERA in 83 games. Ohman is very good against left-handed hitters, holding them to a .200 batting average, a .257 on base percentage and a .314 slugging percentage in 2008.
Pirates Insider John Perrotto makes a strong argument that signing Ohman would not be a bad idea, despite the Pirates have no chance of contending this season.

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