Pittsburgh Pirates and veteran catcher Francisco Cervelli are parting ways, the team has confirmed on Thursday.
As part of a mutual agreement with the player, Pirates decided to release Cervelli and give him an opportunity to play for a contending team for the rest of 2019 MLB season.
Cervelli played in 34 games this season and has .193 batting average alongside one home run and five RBI. He was sidelined with a concussion since May but recently received a green light to play baseball again.
“As Francisco has worked through his rehabilitation, we have had multiple conversations with him and his agent regarding his projected playing time for the remainder of this season with the Pirates,” – said Pirates’ general manager Neal Huntington in a statement. “Out of respect and appreciation for Francisco, we have chosen to honor his request to be released in order for him to pursue an opportunity that potentially gives him a chance at more playing time, as well as an opportunity this season to compete in the postseason.”
Francisco Cervelli is now expected to clear waivers, after which he will be free to sign with the team of his preference. According to reports, Atlanta Braves are close to having an agreement in place with the 33-year-old and are firm favorites for his signature.
Cervelli spent the early part of his career with New York Yankees, with whom he won World Series in 2009. He was traded to Pirates in 2015 in a deal that sent pitcher Justin Wilson in the opposite direction.
Cervelli’s MLB career stats include .269 batting average, 36 home runs, and 261 RBIs.
