The Pittsburgh Pirates have designated right handed pitcher Joe Martinez for assignment, clearing space for Kevin Correia to be added to the 40-man roster. The 40-man roster, which has been at 41 men since Friday, is now back to 40.
Martinez was acquired in the Javier Lopez trade with the San Francisco Giants last year, along with John Bowker. In 19.2 innings in 2010 between the Giants and Pirates, Martinez put up a 4.12 ERA, along with a 4.1 K/9, a 4.1 BB/9, and a 0.5 HR/9. He can start, but his upside is likely as a middle reliever.
The Pirates have ten days to trade Martinez. If they can’t work out a trade, and he clears waivers, the Pirates can outright him to AAA.
