Pittsburgh Pirates Place 6-Veteran Pitcher On Waivers

The Pittsburgh Pirates have made the decision to designate right-handed pitcher Duane Underwood Jr. for assignment, according to reports.

Despite his underwhelming performance this season, the 28-year-old pitcher is expected to generate interest on waivers.

We have activated RHP Vince Velasquez from the 15-day Injured List, and he will start today’s game in Seattle.

To make room on the 26-man roster, RHP Duane Underwood Jr. was designated for assignment.

— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) May 27, 2023

With a 5.18 ERA, 1.44 WHIP, and 14 strikeouts over 24.1 innings in 20 appearances, Underwood Jr. has struggled to find his rhythm.

The Pirates' move suggests they have confidence in Luis Ortiz and Roansy Contreras as potential relievers, while Vince Velasquez rejoins the starting rotation.

Sources: Pirates have designated Duane Underwood Jr. to make room for Vince Velasquez, who will start today.

— Jason Mackey (@JMackeyPG) May 27, 2023

Underwood Jr., who has accumulated 144 appearances in the majors since 2018, now awaits his fate as he enters the waiver process. He'll likely draw some attention from teams needy of pitching depth, however.

Over his six-year career, Underwood has compiled a 4.63 ERA, 1.44 WHIP, while averaging 8.4 K/9 across 144 appearances and 190.2 innings of work. Photo Credit: Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports