Pittsburgh Pirates: Ildemaro Vargas Officially Designated for Assignment

The Pittsburgh Pirates claimed the utility player just a few weeks ago from the Cubs. Now the team is moving on after a series of roster moves.

The Pittsburgh Pirates claimed Ildemaro Vargas on May 17th after being designated for assignment by the Chicago Cubs on May 15th. Vargas did not perform well during his time with the Bucs. He only stepped to the plate 13 times and collected a single hit with 3 strikeouts. So all in all, the Pittsburgh Pirates tenure was not a success.

Throughout his career, Vargas has only hit .239/.272/.368, leading to a .273 wOBA and 65 wRC+ through 335 plate appearances. Though he’s avoided strikeouts for a good portion of his career with a K% of just 15.2%, he’s walked just 4.5% of the time. Vargas has seen playing time all over the infield, logging at least 20 innings at each infield position, aside from catcher and pitcher. He’s also played a bit in the grass, with 14 innings between left and right field.

Vargas played both third base and left field during his short stint with the major league club. When the Pittsburgh Pirates claimed Vargas is was out of necessity. The team lost a few players to injury including Colin Moran and Phillip Evans. In a surprise move, the team designated Troy Stokes Jr. for assignment to claim the much more versatile defender. In the end, it worked out as the Bucs were able to retain Stokes after no one claimed him.

With how off this Major League Baseball season has been, it would not be that surprising to see Vargas claimed on waivers.  It seems like there have been more and more injuries, especially for contending teams. At the same time, after such a poor performance with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Vargas could clear waivers.  If he does, the team will send him Triple-A Indianapolis. Both Colin Moran and Phillip Evans expected to return shortly, and are beginning their rehab assignments.