Pittsburgh Pirates: Club Trades Sean Poppen To Tampa Bay

The Pittsburgh Pirates have traded right-handed reliever Sean Poppen to theTampa Bay Rays in exchange for cash considerations.

When the Pittsburgh Pirates claimed Sean Poppen off waivers from the Minnesota Twins as their first move of the season, there was no much fanfare.  The reason being that Poppen was the prototypical relief pitcher and waiver claim.  The 27 year-old was not impressive in his time with the Twins, pitching just 10 games with 6.19 and providing depth.  The Pirates, in looks of adding arms that could be serviceable throughout the season claimed him and hoped he could at least provide innings.

Well, in three games this season Poppen struggled.  He posted a 7.71 ERA and 6.13 FIP with two walks and a hit by pitch.  He was equally as bad in Spring Training, having a 7.59 ERA in 10.2 innings.  The club eventually designated him for assignment on May 13th to make room for first baseman Will Craig.

Today, the Pittsburgh Pirates have announced that they’ve traded Sean Poppen to the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for cash considerations.  While there was little value in Poppen, by trading him the club was able to acquire something that could be reinvested back into the team.

Overall, Poppen will not be missed.  He was a typical waiver claim that didn’t provide much risk but did provide the Pittsburgh Pirates a fresh arm that could be used.  He struggled this Spring with the organization and with the Major League club, he also posted a subar 4.50 ERA with the Triple-A Indianapolis Indians.

For the Pirates, the club can now take looks at more players as they prepare to decide who on the team is worth trading this summer of offseason and who they can keep around as they look to compete.  Geoff Hartlieb and Nick Mears, along with others are going to get looks this summer and having Poppen off the roster gives these players more chances.