The Pittsburgh Pirates were a team desperately in search of a left-handed reliever that can get outs late in a game.
They may have found that guy in ex-Pirate Joe Beimel.
The Pirates announced today that they have agreed to terms with Beimel on a minor league deal with an invitation to spring training.
Beimel turned down a few major league offers, including a two-year deal from an unnamed team, citing a desire to return to Pittsburgh, where he began his career.
The southpaw has local ties, attending Duquesne University. He was drafted by the Pirates in the 18th round of the 1998 draft and pitched for the big league club from 2001-03.
More recently, Beimel has turned himself into a reliable specialist with an ability to get left handed hitters out.
Beimel’s past five seasons have all been productive, including appearing in 71 games last season, posting a 1-2 record and 3.40 era for the Colorado Rockies.
Beimel’s deal includes an out-clause that allows him to become a free agent if he doesn’t make the Pirates’ Opening Day roster, but he’s expected to make the club.
The signing fills a much needed role in the Pirates’ bullpen and will allow the possibility for Daniel Moskos to pitch in a less-pressured role if he makes the club out of spring training.
Pirates general manager Neal Huntington says the club is still looking to add pitching, but other than taking a shot on another southpaw out of the bullpen, the Pirates are likely done adding to the team this off-season.
There is still a chance of a trade or two involving Ryan Doumit or Paul Maholm, but there have been no progressing talks as of late.
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