 On February 18, the Pirates acquired starting pitcher A. J. Burnett from the New York Yankees for 2 minor leaguers.The Pirates started the 2012 season strong, led by a strong starting rotation, which ranked as one of the best in the majors through the first half of the season.James McDonald, had an All Star caliber start to the season, holding a 9-3 record with an e.r.a.