The Pittsburgh Pirates bench picture became a little clearer as the team announced their latest round of spring training transactions today. Rob Biertempfel of the Tribune Review tweets:
While at first glance these names may not be what everyone would consider to be notable, it can help us get a slightly better picture of the Pirates bench. With Jeong-ho Kang‘s recent struggles, the door seemed to be cracked open, every so slightly, for Steve Lombardozzi to make the 25-man. However, Neal Huntington put that speculation down as he talked about the moves:
Jose Tabata is another name on the list of today’s transactions that is sure to draw a reaction from Pirates fans. Tabata came into camp and showed off a new-and-improved power swing, but could not replicate his batting practice feats in game action, as he struggled to the tune of a .167/.194/.200 slashline to go along with seven strikeouts. He was easily lapped by Jaff Decker, among others.