The Pirates completed a transaction with the Angels, sending Roansy Contreras their way for cash considerations just five days after designating him for assignment. Contreras, utilized in relief this season, found himself in the DFA slot last Saturday to accommodate Paul Skenes on both the Pirates’ 40-man roster and the active 26-man roster.
General Manager Ben Cherington reflected on the decision, acknowledging Contreras’ professionalism and talent while emphasizing the team’s tough call due to his lack of options. Cherington expressed belief in Contreras’ potential as a solid major leaguer but cited the team’s need to prioritize its immediate roster needs as the driving factor behind the move.
Contreras, at 24, contributed 12 relief outings for Pittsburgh this season, tallying a 4.41 ERA and a 1.65 WHIP. His performance included conceding eight runs on 19 hits across 16 1/3 innings, with 16 strikeouts and eight walks.
Originally part of the 2021 trade that sent Jameson Taillon to the Yankees, Contreras once ranked among the top 100 prospects. He showcased promise during his debut full season in the majors in 2022, amassing 21 appearances and 18 starts with a 3.79 ERA and a 1.27 WHIP, registering 86 strikeouts against 39 walks over 95 innings.
However, Contreras encountered challenges over the past two seasons, marked by a decrease in velocity and struggles with command. These difficulties translated into a 6.17 ERA and a 1.58 WHIP across 31 appearances and 11 starts during that period.
