The Pirates must figure out their corner infield spots. If Pedro Alvarez continues to flop at third base, Casey McGehee will get a chance, but McGehee also is in the picture with Garrett Jones at first base.

2011: 72-90, fourth place.

First Workout: Feb. 19/24.

He’s Here: LHP Erik Bedard, C Rod Barajas, SS Clint Barmes, OF Nate McLouth, 3B Casey McGehee.

He’s Outta Here: 1B Derrek Lee, OF Ryan Ludwick, LHP Paul Maholm, SS Ronny Cedeno, SS Pedro Ciriaco, C Ryan Doumit, C Chris Snyder, RHP Jose Veras.

Overview: The Pirates generated plenty of buzz last season, leading the division in late July before collapsing down the stretch en route to the franchise’s 19th straight losing season. Hurdle infused the clubhouse with a needed dash of optimism and the team worked somewhat aggressively — given its salary limitations — during the offseason to plug in holes until help comes from the minors. The Pirates signed Bedard to a one-year deal, hoping he can shake off the injuries that have limited him in recent seasons and become a top-end starter. He’ll fill in for Maholm, the team’s longest tenured player before he signed with the Cubs. Barajas is 36 but the team believes he can catch anywhere from 100-120 games, and his bat will be welcome in one of baseball’s weakest lineups. Barmes signed a two-year deal, citing his relationship with Hurdle in Colorado as a major reason for moving to Pittsburgh. McGehee is insurance in case Pedro Alvarez can’t shake out of the sophomore slump he endured in 2011, while McLouth returns to the Pirates after spending time in Atlanta. The team continues to build around All-Star center fielder Andrew McCutchen, second baseman Neil Walker and right fielder Jose Tabata, with Alvarez needing to make an impact if Pittsburgh wants to build on 2011. The rotation appears to be set, and All-Star closer Joel Hanrahan anchors the bullpen.

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