The Pirates have officially signed free agent left-handed pitcher Jose’ Quintana to a one-year contract.
To make room on the roster, pitcher Steven Brault has been designated for assignment.
The lefty signed for one-year, $8 million with the Angles last winter, making 10 starts in 24 appearances with a 6.75 ERA, 53.1 innings 73 strikeouts to 29 walks with a career-worst 1.78 WHIP. After his release he pitched 9.2 innings with the Giants giving up five runs on six walks and a dozen strikeouts working out to a 4.66 ERA.
“Jose brings a veteran presence and, as a lefthander, some balance to our starting rotation,” said Pirates General Manager Ben Cherington. “Only one year removed from an impressive run of durability and success, Jose demonstrated a clear desire and commitment to improve while pitching in winter ball earlier this month. He is a strong competitor on the mound who also brings with him a terrific reputation as a teammate.”
Injuries have been an issue for Quintana spending time on the injured list in 2020 with the Cubs for a lat inflammation and thumb injury. Last year spent three weeks on the injured list with shoulder inflammation.
Quintana will reportedly make $2 million next season.
The 29-year-old Brault, who has been with the Pirates since 2016, has a lifetime win-loss record of 12-18 with a 4.77 ERA.
He went 0-3 last season with a 5.86 ERA and missed significant time on two occasions with a nagging lat strain.