Pirates Roster Moves: Esmerlyn Valdez Optioned, Infield Depth Added With Konnor Griffin Banged Up
Photo provided by Matt Lynch
PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Pirates optioned outfielder Esmerlyn Valdez to Triple-A Indianapolis and recalled infielder/outfielder Tyler Callihan.
The Pirates recalled Callihan to give them more infield depth. Shortstop Konnor Griffin is dealing with right forearm soreness and is not in the lineup for Thursday’s game against the Chicago Cubs but is available off the bench. Jared Triolo is starting at short and batting eighth.
Valdez, who was recalled by the Pirates on Friday, appeared in five games. He collected two hits — both of which were home runs — in 16 at-bats and drove in five runs. He drew a pair of walks in 18 plate appearances and struck out nine times.
Prior to his promotion to Pittsburgh, the 22-year-old slashed .253/.381/.506 with 10 doubles, 10 home runs and 29 RBI in 46 games with Indianapolis.
With outfielder/first baseman Ryan O’Hearn (right quad strain) ramping up baseball activities, a return to the field is getting closer. The Pirates, who already have a crowded outfield mix, had a more pressing need in the infield.
Callihan was acquired by the Pirates during spring training in a trade that sent right-handed reliever Kyle Nicolas to the division-rival Cincinnati Reds.
Callihan hit .223 with a .651 OPS, six doubles, one triple, five home runs, 16 RBI and eight stolen bases in 49 games with Indianapolis to start the season. Defensively, he played 20 games in left field, 19 at third base, 10 at second base and one in right field.
The 25-year-old made his MLB debut with the Reds last season and appeared in four games. He went 1 for 6 with one RBI.
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