MLB Rumors: Pirates part ways with underperforming player in surprising trade for promising Royals prospect

With MLB All-Star Week underway, teams are eagerly strategizing for the remainder of the regular season, aiming to secure coveted postseason spots. The Pittsburgh Pirates, for instance, reportedly utilized this break to make a tactical move, trading an underperforming player for a promising prospect from the Kansas City Royals.

Amid widespread trade rumors, both the New York Yankees and the New York Mets have been linked with interest in acquiring a World Series veteran. Meanwhile, the Pirates have become a talking point with their recent trade involving the Royals.

MLB insider Robert Murray reports that the Pirates have traded infielder Adam Frazier to the Royals in exchange for Cam Devanney, a standout prospect from the minors this year. “The Kansas City Royals are acquiring infielder Adam Frazier from the Pittsburgh Pirates, according to sources familiar with the deal. Cam Devanney is heading to the Pirates,” Murray announced on X.

This unexpected trade is generating significant buzz on social media, as Pirates fans express excitement over Devanney joining their roster. The player is enjoying an outstanding statistical season with the Omaha Storm Chasers, leading fans to believe the Pirates have secured a valuable asset.

Cam Devanney’s impactful season with the Omaha Storm Chasers

As the Royals reportedly trade Cam Devanney, fans are left questioning the rationale behind moving such a high-performing player. Devanney recorded impressive stats in the MiLB during the 2025 season, making his performance with the Omaha Storm Chasers one of the league’s standout displays, comparable to top prospect George Lombard Jr.’s contributions to the Syracuse Somerset.

Drafted in 2019, Devanney has spent his minor league career across four different teams, but it’s his impressive numbers with Omaha this year that have caught the most attention, cementing his key role in their success. Over 69 games, he has totaled 246 at-bats, scored 41 runs, and amassed 67 hits.

In addition, Devanney has accumulated 139 total bases with 18 home runs, 55 RBIs, and 34 walks. Perhaps most notable is his .931 OPS, marking a career high that underscores his growth and potential in the minors.

Pirates part ways with a struggling asset

In contrast, the Pirates have opted to trade Frazier, whose performance has not met expectations relative to Devanney’s. Frazier’s stats include just two home runs, 22 runs scored, and 60 hits over 235 at-bats, falling short during his second stint with the team. This underwhelming output has prompted the Pirates to reconsider their lineup, hoping to bolster their roster with more productive players like Devanney.