Pirates Select Veteran Right-Hander Chris Devenski from Triple-A Indianapolis
The Pittsburgh Pirates are adding veteran right-handed pitcher Chris Devenski to their major league roster, selecting his contract from Triple-A Indianapolis, as reported by Alex Stumpf. To produce room for Devenski on the 40-man roster, the Pirates designated right-handed pitcher Ryan Harbin for assignment, according to TribLive.
Devenski’s Career Overview
Devenski, 35, has logged large league time in each of the past 10 seasons, having previously played for the Houston Astros, Arizona Diamondbacks, Philadelphia Phillies, Tampa Bay Rays, Los Angeles Angels and New York Mets. He signed a minor league deal with the Pirates in January.
Recent Performance
In 16 1/3 innings pitched for the New York Mets last season, Devenski held opponents to a 2.16 ERA with a 21.5% strikeout rate and a 7.7% walk rate. This was his first season with a major league ERA under 4.46 since 2018. He has continued to perform well in Triple-A Indianapolis this season, pitching 10 2/3 innings and allowing only one earned run on five hits and two walks, while striking out 15 batters – a 38.5% strikeout rate with a 5.1% walk rate.
Past Success
Devenski was a dominant force out of the Houston bullpen in 2016 and 2017, combining for 189 innings of 2.38 ERA ball with a 28.2% strikeout rate and a 6.4% walk rate. Since Opening Day 2018, he has pitched 227 2/3 frames in the majors, logging a 5.18 earned run average.
Roster Moves
The Pirates optioned Hunter Barco to clear an active roster spot for Devenski, as reported by Colin Beazley of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Upward Mobility Clause
Ethan Hullihen reported that Devenski’s contract included an upward mobility clause, requiring the Pirates to either add him to the 40-man roster or allow him to seek opportunities with other clubs.