This will be the year that Pittsburgh Pirates fans can stop wondering when they see prospect Andrew McCutchen in a big league uniform. Only thing is, Opening Day plans still call for McCutchen to be at Triple-A Indianapolis, where he can play center field every day. As the season progresses, though, McCutchen is a virtual lock to get an early callup.

In a Pittsburgh Post-Gazette story on Pirates mini-camp in Bradenton, Fla., minor league field coordinator said of McCutchen, “He’s a man now, ain’t he?” McCutchen put on 10 pounds of solid muscle during the offseason, according to the same report. Read more »

The acquisition of former top prospect outfielder Felix Pie sets into motion a fantasy relevant chain of events in Baltimore. The Orioles, after dealing left-hander Garrett Olson and minor league pitcher Henry Williamson to Chicago on Sunday, are committed to giving Pie every chance to succeed, according to the Baltimore Sun.

The Sun reports that Pie will split time in left field with recently acquired Ryan Freel, but he could fare better than that. The O’s would have no complaints if Pie took command of the job and moved Freel into a fourth outfielder/utility player role. Meanwhile, Luke Scott will take over full-time designated hitter duties and Aubrey Huff will get the majority of his time at first base. Read more »