MVN: Most Valuable Network

The Pirates traded Ronny Paulino to the Philadelphia Phillies last evening in exchange for catching prospect Jason Jaramillo. Paulino was clearly not in management's long-term plans. Jaramillo, 26, played under John Russell at Triple-A Ottawa and is expected to compete with Robinzon Diaz and perhaps free agent Raul Chavez for the backup catcher's job in spring training.

Via MLB Trade Rumors, Neal Huntington is also reportedly near a deal with free agent utility infielder Ramon Vazquez, who appeared in 105 games with the Texas Rangers last season. Vazquez, 32, hit .290/.365/.430 in a career year and can cover every infield spot competently.

In today's Rule 5 draft, the Pirates selected left-handed starting pitcher Donald Veal from the Cubs' system and lost left-handed pitcher Kyle Bloom to the Tigers.  Veal, 24, "is way overdue for some good fortune," according to this MLB.com story. Bloom, 25, threw well in Hawaii Winter Baseball, but was considered old for the league.

Expect Rule 5 analysis from Alan later today.

Earlier at Pirate Revolution:
In an Obvious Rebuilding Year, the Pittsburgh Pirates' Youth Should Be Served.