Former New York Yankees stud Miguel Andujar appears headed for free agency after spending some time with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Per Alex Stumpf of DK Pittsburgh Sports:
The Pirates aren't done clearing roster space yet, either. Per sources, they have placed outfielder/third baseman Miguel Andújar and relievers Yerry De Los Santos and Angel Perdomo on waivers.
Andújar had a good September cameo with the Pirates and was one of their top hitters in Class AAA Indianapolis, but was designated for assignment twice in 2023 and didn't have a clear pathway to consistent playing time moving forward given the Pirates' crowded outfield mix and having Ke'Bryan Hayes at third base.
If he clears waivers, Andújar can declare free agency, so this seems to signal that his time with the Pirates has come to a close.
Andujar finished second in the AL Rookie of the Year voting in 2018 so with his age (28) and that pedigree, he figures to get another chance somewhere in 2024.
He hit .250 with four home runs in 84 at-bats this season at the major league level. He hit .338 at Triple-A for the Pirates this year.
He made his debut in 2017 with the Yankees but figured prominently on the 2018 version of the Yankees, playing in 149 games and hitting 27 home runs with 92 RBI. He also hit 47 doubles that year and hit .297.
With Aaron Judge, Gary Sanchez, Luis Severino and Greg Bird, Andujar was part of the 'Baby Bombers' and was expected to be a major part of the team's future.
Unfortunately, injuries have become a huge part of the story for Andujar. He missed most of the 2019 season with a shoulder injury, was in the minors for most of the COVID 2020 season and ended up injured most of the 2021 season (wrist) as well.
He was designated for assignment by the Yankees in September of 2022 and claimed by the Pirates.
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