Pirates Clear Roster Spot for LHP Tim Mayza

The Pittsburgh Pirates have officially announced their one-year deal with left-handed reliever Tim Mayza. The deal, which was reported last week, is for $1.15 million, a source told Pittsburgh Baseball Now.

To clear a spot on the 40-man roster for Mayza, the Pirates have designated infielder Alika Williams for assignment.

Williams was acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays on June 2, 2023 in exchange for right-handed relief pitcher Robert Stephenson.

The 25-year-old Williams totaled 83 games with the Pirates between the last two seasons. He’s combined to hit .202 with a .529 OPS, nine doubles, two triples and 11 RBIs. At Triple-A Indianapolis in 2024, Williams hit .311 with a .780 OPS in 41 games.

Though he never made an impact with the bat in his hands, Williams served as a sure-handed defender for the Pirates. In 61 games as a shortstop, Williams had two defensive runs saved and a .968 fielding percentage. He also played 20 games as a second baseman.

With the pair of roster moves, the Pirates’ 40-man roster is full.