Pirates signing Chris Devenski still doesn't solve clear problem heading into 2026

Washington Nationals v New York Mets | Jim McIsaac/GettyImagesThe Pittsburgh Pirates signing Chris Devenski to a minor-league deal is exactly the kind of move good teams make in January — sensible, low-risk, and rooted in depth rather than desperation. But it's also a move that neatly underscores a larger issue Pittsburgh still hasn’t solved heading into 2026.

Devenski checks a lot of quiet boxes the Pirates value. He’s experienced. He knows how to survive without premium velocity. He can soak up innings in low-leverage spots and help stabilize the Major League bullpen if injuries hit. For a relief corps that will almost certainly churn at least a few arms over the course of the season, that…