Pirates insider roasts GM Ben Cherington, likens him to Morgan Freeman's iconic Shawshank Redemption role in light of rumored Alex Verdugo interest

The Pittsburgh Pirates finished last in the NL Central last season, going 76-86. Despite the poor season, the team's players received awards, including pitching sensation Paul Skenes, who won the NL Rookie of the Year. In addition, infielder Jared Triolo received the Gold Glove in the utility category.

In Sunday's episode of DK's Daily Shot of Pirates hosted by Dejan Kovacevic, the journalist roasted Pirates general manager Ben Cherington and compared him to actor Morgan Freeman's character in the award-winning film The Shawshank Redemption.

Kovacevic lambasted the executive for seemingly showing interest in signing outfielder Alex Verdugo.

"It's really hard for people who are set in their ways to do something different just because they have all kinds of additional means or different motivations," Kovacevic said. (1:20-1:33)

"The character that Morgan Freeman plays was let go out of the prison at the end of the movie because he's old and has been there for 40 years. He tried to re-assimilate to society but he mightily struggled." (0:45-1:20)

The journalist then continued expressing his bemusement as to why the executive was chasing after Verdugo who mightily struggled during the 2024 season.

Pittsburgh sports pundit criticizes Pirates GM for interest on Alex Verdugo

Continuing with the theme of his podcast, pundit Dejan Kovacovic expressed his surprise when it was reported that the Pittsburgh Pirates are courting former New York Yankee outfielder Alex Verdugo.

"He's 28 years old and he's coming off the worst season of his entire career," Kovacevic added. "He posted a .233 batting average with 13 home runs and 61 RBIs. In terms of productivity, he's a decent hitter. However, his home run tally is capped at 13, which he did in three different seasons."(2:07-2:41)

He questioned the organization for going after Verdugo when they had the cap room to sign someone else.

"Everyone's wondering if the front office is even serious. Why didn't they just go and get one of the good players who were available and also affordable?" he added.

Kovacevic capped off his opinion piece by sharing that based on previous trends, Ben Cherington is not one to spend money on outfielders — instead, he's used to making do with what he has and will splash the funds in other positions.