Two-time All-Star Dee Strange-Gordon takes release from Pirates, becomes free agent

Infielder Dee Strange-Gordon has decided to opt out of his minor league deal with the Pirates, according to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal. The veteran signed with Pittsburgh in early July.

Strange-Gordon is still looking for his first MLB game of the 2021 campaign, which would make it 11 seasons in the Show for the 33-year-old. Since the Mariners declined their club option on Strange-Gordon last fall, he has inked minors contracts around the NL Central, signing with the Reds, Brewers, Cubs, and now the Pirates without getting an opportunity to return to the big leagues.

Though Strange-Gordon had a few strong hitting seasons with the Dodgers and Marlins, the veteran has been best known for his speed, with 333 stolen bases (from 433 attempts) over his career. Strange-Gordon is the active leader in stolen bases, and he swiped 22 bags as recently as the 2019 season. He also offers versatility as an outfielder and middle infielder for any future teams that are looking for veteran depth.