The Pittsburgh Pirates have signed minor league free agent Yunesky Sanchez, and have assigned him to Altoona. Sanchez, who spent four years in the Arizona organization from 2007-2010, has yet to play a professional game this year, after being released by the Diamondbacks out of Spring Training. He has played all four infield positions in his career, spending most of his time at shortstop. He’s not really much of a prospect, as he is 27 years old, and has a career .693 OPS in the minors. His signing will likely provide depth, as Altoona has recently promoted Jordy Mercer, and has placed Jeremy Farrell on the disabled list, leaving their infield a bit thin.
The Pirates have also released outfielder Jose Hernandez, their 23rd round draft pick from the 2009 draft. Hernandez was more of an organizational player, making the jump from low-A to AA this year, but putting up a .165/.220/.264 line in the process.
