The Pittsburgh Pirates announced that they have claimed right-handed pitcher Yacksel Rios from the Philadelphia Phillies. He was placed on waivers on Monday. Rios has been assigned to Indianapolis.
The 26-year-old Rios had 53 games of MLB experience over the last three seasons. In 55 innings, he has a 6.38 ERA, a 1.65 WHIP, a .287 BAA and 55 strikeouts. This season he has made four appearances, allowing four earned runs over 2.2 innings. In 31 games at Triple-A this year, he has a 7.41 ERA in 34 innings, with 37 strikeouts and a 1.76 WHIP.
Rios was a 12th round draft pick in 2011 out of Puerto Rico, where he converted from third base to pitcher shortly before the draft. At the time, he touched 93 MPH, but now his fastball averages 95.9 MPH.
The Pirates had two open spots on their 40-man roster, so no other move needs to be made.
