The Pittsburgh Pirates, facing the risk of losing their wild card spot, made a move to bolster their roster. General Manager Neal Huntington orchestrated a trade to enhance the team’s infield depth by acquiring Adeiny Hechavarria from the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for Matt Seelinger. As part of the deal, the Pirates also received cash considerations, but they will need to make a corresponding move on the disabled list or roster.
This appears to be a short-term acquisition as Hechavarria has not committed to the 2019 season yet. However, the Pirates will cover thirty-one percent of his $5.9 million salary for this year. Hechavarria, at 29 years old, has been hitting .258 with three home runs and 26 RBIs in 61 games as a shortstop this season. Known for his strong defensive skills, Hechavarria was one of the top hitters for triples in the MLB until this season when his errorless streak of 94 games ended against the Houston Astros. Before this season, Hechavarria’s 35 career triples since 2013 rank third in the MLB behind Dee Gordon and Charlie Blackmon.
In addition to his defensive prowess, Hechavarria also ranks fifth in career games played in the majors since 2013. He was a National League Gold Glove finalist in 2014 and 2015 during his time with the Miami Marlins. Hechavarria made his MLB debut with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2012 and then served as the Marlins’ starting shortstop for four years before being traded to the Rays in 2017.
