CINCINNATI -- The Pirates moved to add pitching depth Monday by acquiring right-hander Yefry Ramirez – who has a 1-10 career record in the major leagues -- from the Orioles for either a player to be named or cash considerations.
The Pirates optioned the 25-year-old to Class AAA Indianapolis. Right-hander reliever Jesus Liranzo, currently pitching at Indy, was designated for assignment to open a spot of the 40-man roster for Ramirez.
The Orioles DFAd Ramirez last week after he went 0-2 with a 6.97 ERA and 1.93 WHIP in four games, including one start. In four starts with Class AAA Norfolk this season, the Dominican Republic native was 1-1 with a 1.50 ERA and 1.11 WHIP in four starts.
Ramirez made his major-league debut last year when the Orioles had the worst record in the major leagues at 47-115. He was 1-8 with a 5.92 ERA and 1.53 WHIP in 17 games, including 12 starts.
The Arizona Diamondbacks signed Ramirez as an amateur free agent in 2011. The New York Yankees selected Ramirez in the Rule 5 Draft at the 2015 Winter Meetings. The Orioles purchased his contract from the Yankees during the 2017 season.
While Ramirez has struggled at the major-league level, he has had success in the minors. In eight seasons, he has a 39-32 record with a 3.44 ERA and 1.11 WHIP.
Liranzo’s fastball has been clocked at 100 mph in the minor leagues. However, the 24-year-old has had an awful season at Indianapolis, going 0-2 with a 7.54 ERA and 1.94 WHIP in 16 games. He also has 17 walks in 20 2/3 innings.
