Two Pittsburgh Pirates Pitchers Elect Free Agency

Both Duane Underwood and Chase De Jong have decided to enter free agency, signaling their intentions to explore opportunities beyond their current team, the Pittsburgh Pirates.

In the 2023 season, both pitchers faced considerable challenges while wearing the Pirates' uniform.

The following #Pirates minor leaguers have elected free agency:

RHP Chase De Jong
RHP Duane Underwood Jr.

— MiLB-Transactions (@tombaseball29) October 4, 2023

Duane Underwood struggled with a 5.18 ERA and a 1.44 WHIP over 24.1 innings in the Major League, and his performance in Triple-A didn't show significant improvement with a 6.30 ERA and a 1.35 WHIP.

Similarly, Chase De Jong's 2023 season was marked by adversity.

He made six appearances for the Pirates, but unfortunately, he gave up 17 runs in just 11.1 innings.

RELEASED: #Pirates RHP Chase De Jong and RHP Duane Underwood Jr. have been released after electing free agency.

— MLB Transaction Tracker (@MLBMovesTracker) October 5, 2023

On a more positive note, De Jong showed better performance in the minor leagues, boasting a 3.73 ERA and a 1.70 WHIP.

It appears unlikely that either Duane Underwood or Chase De Jong will secure more than a minor-league contract with another team at this point.

Their challenging statistics in the MLB in 2023 suggest that they may need to rebuild their confidence and prove themselves once again, possibly in the minor leagues, as they seek new opportunities in their baseball careers. Photo Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports