In attempt to fortify their bullpen, the Pittsburgh Pirates have reportedly acquired reliever John Axford from the Cleveland Indians. This is the latest bullpen move for a Pirates team that currently sits two games behind the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central and tied with the St. Louis Cardinals for the top wildcard spot.
According to ESPN’s Buster Olney the acquisition comes in the form of a straight waiver claim.
The Pirates got John Axford in a straight waiver claim from Cleveland. Owed about $1.1 million for the rest of the year.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) August 14, 2014
Axford, who signed a one-year, $4.5 million contract with the Indians last offseason, is set to earn a tad over $1 million for the remainder of the year. The former Milwaukee Brewers closer has put up a solid season. He’s posted a 3.92 ERA and 10 saves in 49 appearances thus far.
This is some much needed relief for a Pirates squad that has racked up the third-most blown saves (18) in MLB this season. Their bullpen also ranks 16th in the Majors with a 3.52 ERA.
Photo: Yahoo