Pirates high on Baldelli

The Pirates are on a short list of teams interested in acquiring outfielder Rocco Baldelli, formerly of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays.

While the organization doesn't usually comment on specific free-agent targets, team president Frank Coonelly acknowledged the team's interest in the former No. 1 draft pick.

"We agree that Rocco Baldelli could be a very good fit in our roster, and we are excited about the possibility of adding Rocco to the Pirates," Coonelly said Wednesday on a chat with fans on www.pirates.com.

"As you know, Rocco has had to deal with medical issues that have limited his playing time in recent years. We are continuing to review his medical condition and have kept in close contact with his representative, Casey Close."

Baldelli is a Rhode Island native and the Boston Red Sox are also on the list of teams interested in Baldelli.

Baldelli was once a coveted five-tool player and had 27 home runs in his first two seasons in the majors (2003-04). He missed the 2005 season after tearing the ACL in his right knee.

After rebounding with 16 homers again in 2006, injuries have plagued Baldelli the last two seasons. A mysterious muscle disease which led to extreme fatigue was eventually diagnosed as channelpathy.

In five seasons, Baldelli has 52 home runs and 234 RBI with a .281 average.