Jenifer Langosch of MLB.com is reporting that the pirates claimed lefty reliever Justin Thomas off of waivers from the Mariners. I don't know much about the guy other than what I read in the article, but I am sure he is just marginal at best. The thing that came to my mind when I read the article were the comments that Huntington made when the Bucs traded Grabow. I think it was something along the line of it doesn't matter how many lefties we have in the pen as long as we have effective relievers. I agree with the statement to a degree, but I don't think the Pirates are ever going to have a bunch of lights out relievers. If you don't have all studs in the pen, it is important to have some guys who can succeed in the right situation like LOOGYs. I think this move indicates Neil is backpedalling a little on his statements. I guess that is what you get when you have a GM who always tells you exactly what is on his mind. I guess you have to take the bad with the good. Anyone have any thoughts on the move? (Is Thomas any good?, Does Neil speak before he thinks sometimes?, Are bullpen specialists important?, etc., etc.) Also, who do you think is the likely candidate to be removed from the 40 man?   

link to article

Now that the prospect signing deadline and the trading deadline has past, I think it will be fun to project the top 10 prospects. Here is mine:

1. Pedro Alverez

2. Andrew McCutchen

3. Jose Tabata

4. Bryan Morris

5. Neil Walker

6. Daniel McCutchen

7. Jamie Romak

8. Brad Lincoln 

9. Robbie Grossman

10.  Shelby Ford

Others Receiving Votes: Jordy Mercer, Justin Wilson, Brian Friday, Daniel Moskos, Dave Davidson, Quinton Miller, Wesley Freeman

Lets see what you think. This is way more fun than usual.

Edit: I would have included ohlendorf, but I thought he had to many MLB IP. I see only has 47 IP, so he is eligible. I would have placed him 8th right in front of Lincoln, and knocking ford out of the top 10.