ORLANDO — A few of the top available free agents came off the board. Countless scenarios were discussed. Interest was expressed. Pete Alonso even made a surprise appearance.

But MLB’s winter meetings, held this week at Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek, haven’t really brought much sizzle. It’s been more of a simmer, something that will hopefully heat up later this winter.

That certainly appears to be how the Pirates are thinking about things. General manager Ben Cherington and his staff have been active meeting with agents for players they could acquire either via free agency or trade. Yet obviously nothing has landed.

It’s not a bad thing, Cherington cautioned.

Only part of the journey.

“Confident we’re going to land some things that help our position player group and help our te

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