Pittsburgh Pirates: Jameson Taillon and Gerrit Cole on MLB.com Top 10 RHP List

Jameson Taillon and Gerrit Cole have been named to the MLB.com's 2012 Top 10 right-handed pitchers list.

Jameson Taillon

Taillon, the Pirates No. 1 pick in the 2010 Draft, is rated No. 3 and was No. 6 on the 2011 list. The list describes Taillon as a big, strong right-hander with outstanding stuff and a good feel for pitching. It also noted that while the Pirates have maintained a strict limit on Taillon in his first season, nothing has happened to dampen the excitement for his future.

In addition, it was noted that Taillon will move up a level in 2012, and could start pushing his way up the ladder more quickly. Apparently, the Pirates plan to move slowly with him as they have not given him an invite to spring camp.

Gerrit Cole

Cole, the top overall pick in last year's draft, is rated No. 6. According to the list he has three plus pitches with his fastball, slider and changeup. The list also said he has the stuff to rise quickly and should do just that. Assuming he can learn to be consistent with his delivery, it shouldn't take him too long to make it to Pittsburgh.

Moving Cole quickly appears to be the Pirates plan. According to Brian McTaggart of MLB.com they Pirates have invited him to spring training along with 2009 first-round pick Tony Sanchez; 2011 Minor League Player of the Year, Robbie Grossman, Mike Crotta; Ramon Cabrera and Eric Fryer.

If the Pirates are willing to spend the money, it appears that the Pirates will soon have a rotation that this organization has not seen it some time.