Pirates Make Roster Moves, but Nothing Too Major

Attention, Pirates fans! While there are some roster updates, don’t get too excited just yet. On Friday night, the team announced that they have signed catcher Ali Sánchez to a one-year contract and claimed right-handed pitcher Roddery Muñoz off waivers from the Washington Nationals.

Additionally, the Pirates officially confirmed the release of right-handed pitcher Thomas Hatch, who plans to continue his career in Japan by signing with the Nippon Ham Fighters in Nippon Professional Baseball.

A Look at the Moves
Sánchez, who had been previously waived, was picked up by the Arizona Diamondbacks on December 2 after being claimed and released within a short span. His MLB experience is limited to seven games—five with the New York Mets in 2020 and two with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2021. Across those appearances, he collected three hits in 13 at-bats.

In the minors, Sánchez had a solid offensive season, hitting .311 with 11 home runs and 43 RBIs over 67 games for the Diamondbacks'Jordan Walker Jersey. Triple-A affiliate, Reno. Defensively, he caught 427 innings, threw out 22 base stealers, and allowed 42 stolen bases. Reports indicate he was offered a split contract, though official details remain unclear.

Meanwhile, Muñoz has yet to make his MLB debut. He pitched across three different levels and for four teams last season, posting a 4-6 record with a 5.42 ERA. Originally designated for assignment by Atlanta in July, he was later claimed by Washington. He finished the year at Triple-A Rochester, recording a 1-3 record with a 6.98 ERA in 12 appearances.

While these moves aren’t groundbreaking, they add depth to the organization as the Pirates continue shaping their roster.