Pittsburgh Pirates: Miguel Andujar, Angel Perdomo Have New Teams

The Pittsburgh Pirates faced a pretty active Monday, losing two players they placed on waivers, right-handed hitter Miguel Andujar, and lefty reliever Angel Perdomo. The Oakland Athletics claimed Andujar, a move that aligns with their strategy of seeking buy-low candidates with high potential. Andujar could get more of an everyday opportunity with the Athletics.

In 2023, Andujar contributed with a WAR of 0.1, indicating a relatively modest impact compared to his previous performances. He had 84 at-bats, resulting in 21 hits and 4 home runs. His batting average in 2023 was .250, and he scored 9 runs while driving in 18 RBIs.

On the other hand, the Atlanta Braves snagged Angel Perdomo, a lefty reliever who showed flashes of promise in 2023 with the Pirates. This move by the Braves makes a lot of sense, given their solid track record of developing pitchers. However, what sets this acquisition apart is Perdomo's injury, which will keep him sidelined for the entire year. The Braves have the financial strength to cover his arbitration without him contributing to the 2024 team.

In 2023, Angel Perdomo showcased promising numbers for the Pittsburgh Pirates, accumulating a WAR of 0.4. He secured three wins and suffered two losses with an ERA of 3.72 across 30 games, all of which he appeared in as a reliever. Perdomo also managed to strike out 44 batters while maintaining an impressive WHIP of 1.103 over 29.0 innings pitched.

For the Pirates, losing these two players stings a bit. The team has spent a lot of time with Miguel Andujar over the last year or so, unfortunately, he could not seize an opportunity when given it. Perdomo is unforutane because he looked to be a good find for the ball club. However, his injury situation put the Pittsburgh Pirates in a tough position in terms of roster flexibility this offseason.

Overall, the Pittsburgh Pirates knew there was a chance to lose some of these players when they placed them on waivers.

It is interesting to see so many players who they designated for assignment find new homes already. Beyond the two mentioned above, Tucupita Marcano was claimed by the Padres and Cody Bolton was traded to the Mariners. Will the Pittsburgh Pirates be regretting any of these moves at this time next year? Hopefully, not!