Jan 21, 2007 By Commentary John Mehno 3 min read

PITTSBURGH – You know the euphoria that erupts when a perennial “C” student unexpectedly brings home a report card that includes an “A” grade? That’s the principle behind all the enthusiasm that has surrounded the Pirates’ acquisition of power-hitting first baseman Adam LaRoche from the Atlanta Braves.

You never expected them to do anything at all, much less something that looks this good.

It’s the kind of fundamental management principle the Pirates haven’t followed much lately: Identify a surplus and use it to trade for a need.

They have other pitchers who have a good chance to take over the spot vacated by closer Mike Gonzalez; they didn’t have anyone to provide the left-handed power that LaRoche brings.

So one year after they shredded $14.2 million on Sean Casey and Jeromy Burnitz because they batted left-handed, they’ve acquired a player who nicely fits a critical need and has a chance to stick around for a few years.

In the context of this franchise’s last 14 seasons, that’s nothing short of amazing.

One of the reasons the Pirates were willing to part with Gonzalez was the belief that his throwing motion will eventually lead to major arm problems.

Although Gonzalez was a perfect 24-for-24 in save opportunities, the question for the Braves is whether he’ll be as effective pitching in games that figure to have much more at stake.

Last summer Fox Sports Net Pittsburgh dropped Mike Lange from its Penguins telecasts, and it looked as though Lange’s career here might be over after more than 30 years.

Instead, it’s been reborn.

Lange is doing an exceptional job on Penguins radio. He’s on top of the play, he’s conversational with analyst Phil Bourque, and he’s avoiding all the silly digressions that were stealing his attention on TV.

It helps that the Penguins are competitive for the first time in several years, of course.

Radio play-by-play demands that the announcer stick with the action, and Lange has met the challenge of his new role well.

First baseman Craig Wilson had a contract with the Pirates last season that paid him $3.3 million. He was traded to the New York Yankees, who dropped him from their postseason roster.

Now Wilson has signed with the Braves for $2 million, with the possibility of reaching incentives for plate appearances that would pay another $100,000.

In an offseason where the free agent money has been crazy, he’s taking at least a $1.2 million pay cut.

The odd thing is he may get some of the playing time created by LaRoche’s trade to the Pirates.

Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl has been accused of being rowdy enough outside a Steelers game to draw the attention of police.

In a lot of cities that might cost a candidate votes. Here, it will probably help his election campaign.

Sports correspondent John Mehno can be reached online at: johnmehno@lycos.com