The Pittsburgh Pirates announced that right-handed pitcher Nick Kingham has been traded to the Toronto Blue Jays for cash considerations. Kingham was designated for assignment five days ago.
The 27-year-old Kingham was drafted by the Pirates in the fourth round in 2010. He made his Major League debut last April 29th and ended up his first season with a 5.21 ERA in 76 innings, making 15 starts and three relief appearances. He had 69 strikeouts and a 1.38 WHIP.
This season was rough for Kingham, who made four starts and ten relief appearances. He posted a 9.87 ERA and a 2.05 WHIP in 34.2 innings, with 32 strikeouts. Kingham served up a total of 25 homers in his 110.2 innings.
He was once a top six prospect in the system, but Tommy John surgery slowed his pace to the majors. Some command issues, along with lower velocity, led to his prospect stock dropping him out of the top ten after his return.
Kingham is out of minor league options, so he will get a chance to turn things around in the majors with the Blue Jays.
