What's That Sucking Sound?

Oh it's just the Pittsburgh Pirates.

One good thing about the club enduring one of the crappiest seasons in 50 years? They're assured the no. 1 pick in the 2011 June amateur draft.

Well on their way to their first 100-loss season since 2001, it will be impossible to finish with a worse record than any other of the 29 teams in major league baseball. Hey, someone has to finish last.

Manager John Russell makes nice use of the word "abysmal" after his team's 100th loss:

Scott Boras Claims Another Soul

Scott Boras has struck again, this time in the form of an unknowing 21-year-old, power-hitting third baseman. Too bad instant replay wasn't established before the August 15th draft deadline.

No. 2 pick Pedro Alvarez, currently on baseball's restricted list, has refused to sign his contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates, leading the players’ association to file a grievance Wednesday, claiming the deadline was extended by MLB without their permission.

The Bucs agreed to a minor league contract with Alvarez, including a $6 million signing bonus on the morning of August 16th. However, his agent, Scott Boras recommended his client not report until the agreement was renegotiated. Apparently, the deal was inked after the midnight deadline for draft picks.