Pirates Acquire Thompson Off of Waivers; Cut Ledezma

The Pirates acquired LHP Aaron Thompson, off of waivers, from the Washington Nationals. Thompson, a former first rounder, was drafted by the Florida Marlins in the 2005 Amateur Draft, spent most of the 2010 season with in AA Harrisburg, and later promoted to AAA Syracuse, appearing in only 1 game, posted a 5-13 record for the season. With this acquisition, the Pirates were forced to make a roster move, to open up a spot on the 40 man roster, and DFA'd Will Ledezma.

Aaron Thompson

Ledezma, signed to the Pirates prior to the 2010 season, appeared in 27 games, while posting 0-3 record, with a .686 ERA. His role, while with the Pirates, was a middle reliever, and was called upon frequently, after his call up. With Ledezma being designated for assignment, he can opt to become a free agent, after ten days, or accept his assignment and appear at Spring Training. Earlier in the off season, he signed a major league contract with the Pirates, and would seem likely to stick with the organization.


This move puzzles me. Statistically, Thompson has a lot to work on, while Ledezma is a veteran presence in the bullpen, and is reliable. Though Ledezma is no longer on the 40 Man Roster, still can appear in spring training, and work for a position in the bullpen, if he decides to accept his assignment, or isn't claimed off of waivers.