Pirates

A.J. Burnett said Tuesday that he thinks changes in his delivery resulted in a velocity drop last season.

Burnett averaged 94.2 mph on his fastball in 2009, but the average velocity on his heater dropped all the way down to 92.7 mph last season. It’s very possible that this is just the natural progression of a pitcher in their mid-30s, but Burnett seems to believe otherwise. “I had deception in my delivery in 2009 that made me successful,” said Burnett. “It wasn?t anybody. They didn?t like the turn. They wanted me to be more of a strike thrower and try to get more consistent in the strike zone because I was wild in that delivery — but then again I was more powerful and dominant in that delivery.” Even if Burnett doesn’t get back to his previous velocity, he should benefit by leaving the AL East and moving to the easier league.

Pirates acquired RHP A.J. Burnett and cash considerations from the Yankees for RHP Diego Moreno and OF Exicardo Cayones.

The Yankees are expected to cover around $18 million of the approximately $31 million left on Burnett’s contract. The Pirates will pay him $5 million this season and $8 million in 2013. The 35-year-old right-hander had a fine first season in New York and even won Game 2 of the 2009 World Series against the Phillies, but it was clear something needed to change after he posted a 5.20 ERA over the past two seasons. Getting away from the American League East should do wonders for Burnett, who struck out 173 batters over 190 1/3 innings last season and has logged at least 32 starts in each of the last four seasons. The Pirates probably won’t contend this season, but don’t be surprised if Burnett ends up being relevant in mixed leagues again.