Pittsburgh Pirates DFA Key Return From Rodriguez Trade

He was the key return in the trade of closer Rich Rodruguez to the Atlanta Braves in 2021. Now, the Pittsburgh Pirates have designated for assignment pitcher Bryce Wilson. 

With a 5.52 ERA in 20 starts (25 appearances) in 2022 with a 1.42 WHIP, the Pirates have decided to cut bait on the 25-year-old. Things got pretty ugly with Wilson's performance at certain points of the 2022 season. 

Bryce Wilson’s last two starts for the Pirates: 14 runs in 3.2 innings pitched. I’m beginning to think they’re not a serious team. https://t.co/1VorRTQRrb

— Shane (@sbliss89) June 15, 2022

In a series of two straight starts in June, he gave up 14 runs in 3.2 innings. Pirates beat writer Jason Mackey was ready to waive the white flag.

Things got a little better for Wilson in July, when he was able to compile a 3.27 ERA in four starts, but that was quickly followed by a 5.74 ERA in August. 

He spent a bit of time at Triple-A, where he fared quite well, with a 2.97 ERA in six starts and a 34:6 strikeout-to-walk ratio. Perhaps that bit of optimism might help him catch on with a new team willing to take a shot. 

The move to DFA Wilson was made in order to clear a spot on the roster for newly-signed Jarlin Garcia. 

Photo: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports