On today's first of two episodes of Locked On Pirates, host Ethan Smith discusses rumors that Oneil Cruz has been granted permission to play for LIDOM's Tigres del Licey this winter. How important is it for Cruz to get in-game action this off-season and what does it mean for him moving forward in 2024?Also, the Pirates were involved in some transactions on Monday, bringing in a young outfielder from the Twins and losing two pitchers to the A's and Yankees. What is the impact of these moves and what do they mean for the team?Finally, we've seen some pitching signings already in the off-season from Lance Lynn and Aaron Nola. Is the pitching market setting itself and how do the Pirates fit into the mold?Score early this NFL season with FanDuel, America’s Number One Sportsbook! Right now, NEW customers get ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS with any winning FIVE DOLLAR MONEYLINE BET! That’s A HUNDRED AND FIFTY BUCKS – if your team wins! Visit FanDuel.com/LOCKEDON to get started.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices