Pirates Release Cruz
PITTSBURGH (93-7 THE FAN) -- After refusing an assignment to Triple-A Indianapolis, relief pitcher Juan Cruz, who was designated for assignment earlier this week, was released outright by the Pirates today.
Cruz, 33, signed as a minor league free agent in February, and went 1-1 with three saves and a 2.78 ERA over 35 2/3 innings this season with Pittsburgh, his eighth different MLB employer since debuting with the Cubs in 2001.
Most recently appearing in the Pirates' 19-inning, 6-3 victory in St. Louis Sunday, a game in which he allowed the tying run in the 17th, Cruz struck out 33 total, walked 19, and posted a 1.62 WHIP in 43 relief appearances.
Cruz had also spent significant time on the disabled list with a shoulder injury.
The Pirates resume play Friday night at PNC Park with the first of a three-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers. First pitch is 7:05, and coverage begins at 5:40 with the Pirates Prevew Show with Dan Zangrilli and Kevin Orie on your flagship home of the Bucs, SportsRadio 93.7 The Fan.
