Burnett boosts Pirates’ image

Associated Press

pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Pirates president Frank Coonelly borrows an analogy from manager Clint Hurdle when talking about the way the long-struggling franchise is perceived by the best players in baseball.

“We used to not be the prettiest girl at the dance,” Coonelly said. “We’re a little bit prettier this year but we’re still not as pretty as some of the other clubs in the eyes of the dance partners. Like in many areas, we’re making positive strides to get prettier.”

Friday, the Pirates traded for the Yankees’ much maligned pitcher A.J. Burnett for two minor leaguers.

Pittsburgh will pay $13 million of the $33 million salary due Burnett for 2012 and 2013. New York will receive 25-year-old right-hander Diego Moreno and 20-year-old outfielder Exicardo Cayones, both low-level prospects.

“I think he’s looking forward to the opportunity to re-establish himself and mentor some of the young pitchers,” said Burnett’s agent, Darek Braunecker.

In Pittsburgh, Burnett joins a rotation that includes newly signed Erik Bedard and returnees James McDonald, Kevin Correia and Jeff Karstens. Charlie Morton is recovering from hip surgery in October.

While the rest of the NL Central underwent a major shakeup in the field or the front office — or both — during the offseason, the Pirates quietly went about their business of trying to build around their young core, bringing in a group of veterans they hope will provide a young clubhouse with a stabilizing presence.

Burnett has two World Series rings, catcher Rod Barajas has one and third baseman Casey McGehee and shortstop Clint Barmes all have postseason experience. Throw in lefthanded pitcher Erik Bedard and outfielder Nate McLouth and Coonelly is certain what the signing lacks in sex appeal it makes up for in professionalism.

“The thinking was be aggressive, fill needs with players at the top of our board and not wait until this time in the free agent market when you start to see prices go down after players don’t get what they’re looking for,” Coonelly said.