The Pirates today traded Brian Bixler to Cleveland, which cleared a 40-man roster spot for free-agent reliever Brendan Donnelly.
Bixler was swapped for minor league infielder Jesus Brito, 22, who played in Class A last season. Brito hit a combined .353 with 19 doubles, 10 triples and 43 RBI in 60 games in rookie ball and Single-A Mahoning Valley.
Donnelly, 38, inked a one-year contract. Terms were not immediately available.
Last season, Donnelly went 3-0 with two saves and a 1.78 ERA in 30 outings for the Florida Marlins. Over eight years in the majors, the right-hander is 29-9 with a 3.02 ERA.
“Donnelly is a veteran set-up type reliever who brings experience, toughness and determination to our bullpen,” general manager Neal Huntington said in a statement.
Donnelly had reconstructive elbow surgery in 2007. He’s also played for the Angels, Red Sox and Indians.
Two good moves. I have seen Bixler in the minors and liked him, but someone had to go and it looks like we may have received a good prospect for him. Overall, I am quite impressed by NH. He has a good plan and is sticking to it.
Move over Yankees
So long Bixler….good minor #’s, but the majors were too much….anyway, boy NH is making me a believer. Crosby, Iwumara, Donnelly, Church, Lopez, and maybe Dotel…we are actually signing players. Whether they are no names on big $ teams, they are still good players and I am excitied(like I am every year), to watch the Pirates this year. I do not like to talk down the Pirates, because I’ve been a fan for 24 yrs, but it is time to end this streak. It has been too long, and no matter what , I will continue to support the Bucos. Go PIRATES!!!!