SAN DIEGO -- The Pirates are adding some infield depth to their roster, acquiring infielder Yu Chang from the Guardians for cash considerations, per source.
Chang, 26, was once a promising shortstop prospect in Cleveland’s farm system, but has struggled at the dish in the upper levels of the minors and in parts of four seasons in the majors.
He was designated for assignment Thursday.
The Pirates will need to open up a spot on the 40 man roster for Chang. He does not have any minor-league options remaining.
Chang is hitless in 10 at-bats in the majors this year. Last season, he slashed .228/.267/.426 with nine home runs and 39 RBIs over 251 plate appearances.
He was one of Cleveland’s primary first basemen last year, starting 41 games at the position. He made three errors and finished neutral in defensive runs saved. He has also received playing time in the majors at second base, shortstop and third.
The Pirates’ first base depth has taken a serious hit this week, with Yoshi Tsutsugo and Daniel Vogelbach both hitting the injured list and Michael Chavis being used sparingly because of a forearm injury. Utilityman Josh VanMeter has received the bulk of the playing time at first during their weekend series, with little depth behind him.
The Pirates did seem to have a candidate to come up to the majors in first base prospect Mason Martin, but the club has opted to keep him in the minors to focus on his development.
In additional news, outfielder Ben Gamel was placed on the 10-day injured list with a strained left hamstring. Assistant general manager Kevan Graves said on 93.7 The Fan Sunday he is hopeful it will not be a lengthy stay.
Utlityman Hoy Park was called up from Class AAA Indianapolis to make room on the roster for Gamel.
