Pirates pluck more off the sCRAP heap.

[Kingdom]

Pirates get Garrett Atkins for a MLC. Atkins had a decent 3 year stretch with the Rockies earlier this decade, but has only proven to be purely a benefactor from the Coors-effect. He just doesn't cut it outside of those friendly confines.

More poo to compete at the corners.

Pittsburgh Pirates claim lefty Aaron Thompson, sign vet Garrett Atkins - ESPN

[missionhockey21]

His power though isn't completely non-existent outside of Coors. For a MLC, I like this deal. Granted I am sure this does little for the likes of Sabu or other Pirates faithful, and I am not sure how messed up Atkins approach at the plate is (he might not be great, but better than his limited AB 2010 numbers), however Atkins is the kind of player worth a no-risk gamble. He isn't ancient and with the right instruction and a bit of luck, maybe he puts together an .800 OPS season and is a decent trading chip.

[Kingdom]

He's also a limited defensive player, though.

[love_that_reefer]

Its a no risk, all reward deal but doubt he makes the team. Josh Fields has a better chance in my view.

[realmofotalk]

He isn't ancient and with the right instruction and a bit of luck, maybe he puts together an .800 OPS season and is a decent trading chip.

And if it coincides with a lackluster first half of the season from Casey Blake...OMG I don't want to think about the trade scenarios.