Well, it's certainly an upgrade over Barajas on both sides. Not really happy about the price for a guy coming off an awful season, but outbidding the Yankees gets though, I suppose.Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com reports that the Pirate have reached a deal with Russell Martin, pending a physical.
The New York Times' David Waldstein says the deal is for two years and $17 million. It's a little surprising that the Yankees weren't willing to at least match that, given that Martin seemed to be their clear top choice at catcher. If the Pirates' deal with Martin is finalized, look for the Bombers to go after A.J. Pierzynski.