Pirates Trade For Yankees’ Catcher Francisco Cervelli
(Photo Credit: Brian Blanco/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH (KDKA/AP) — The Pirates say they have acquired catcher Francisco Cervelli from the New York Yankees in exchange for reliever Justin Wilson.
Mainly a backup with the Yankees, the 28-year-old Cervelli – from Venezuela – batted .301 with two homers and 13 RBIs in 49 games last season.
The Pirates could have an opening at catcher if they are unable to re-sign Russell Martin, a free agent who declined the team’s $15.3 million qualifying offer after helping Pittsburgh to consecutive playoff berths.
CBS Sports’ Jon Heyman reports that this trade does not change the Pirates’ pursuit of Martin.
The energetic Cervelli was once a backup to Martin with the Yankees.
The left-handed Wilson and his upper-90s (mph) fastball were a vital part of the Pirates’ bullpen this year. He went 3-4 with a 4.20 ERA in 70 appearances, striking out 61 in 60 innings.
Cervelli is a .278 career hitter who has been slowed by various injuries throughout his career.
He also served a 50-game suspension in 2013 for his role in the Biogenesis drug scandal.
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