The Pirates attempted to build around a couple of good players (Error-miss Ramirez, Brian Giles and Jason kendall). This has failed and the contracts they gave these guys has turned into a burden that the Pirates cannot afford to keep. By attempting to build around those 3, they painted themselves into a corner. Oh ... you can Kris Benson to that group, also.
It seems to me the Pirates are doing the only smart thing they can do. Which, is in all effects, punting on 4th down.