In response to the trade deadline, the Pirates made several roster moves today. The team added right-hander Jake Woodford to the roster and acquired left-hander Jalen Beeks from the Rockies. Additionally, right-hander Carmen Mlodzinski was placed on the 15-day injured list, right-hander Daulton Jefferies was transferred to the 60-day IL, and right-hander Ryder Ryan was designated for assignment.
Woodford, 27, joined Pittsburgh on a minor league deal after being designated for assignment by the White Sox. He struggled in two spot starts with the White Sox, allowing ten runs on fifteen hits in 8 1/3 innings. Despite this, Woodford showed promise during his time with the Cardinals, posting a 3.26 ERA and 3.93 FIP over two seasons.
Woodford’s success can be attributed to his low home run rate and high strand rate. Despite a regression in his performance in 2023, he has shown improvement in Triple-A games with Pittsburgh, boasting a 2.29 ERA and improved strikeout and walk rates. He is expected to serve as a multi-inning reliever for Pittsburgh.
Mlodzinski, a first round pick by the Pirates, will be sidelined due to a right shoulder strain. Jefferies and Ryan were cleared from the 40-man roster, with Jefferies out until early September and Ryan facing potential waivers. Despite Ryan’s lackluster numbers, his underlying performance suggests potential for improvement.
