What's Happening?
The Pittsburgh Pirates have re-signed Ronny Simon to a minor league contract after previously non-tendering him at the end of the season. Simon, a 25-year-old player, has been part of five different organizations throughout his career. Initially traded from the Cubs to the Arizona Diamondbacks and then to the Tampa Bay Rays, Simon did not reach the major leagues until he signed a minor league deal with the Miami Marlins last offseason. During his brief stint with the Marlins, Simon played 19 games, with one game notably marked by three errors at second base, leading to his designation for assignment. The Pirates claimed him off waivers, and he performed well in Triple-A, hitting .284/.381/.436 over 248 plate appearances. However, his season was
cut short due to a shoulder dislocation. The Pirates opted to non-tender him to free up a spot on their 40-man roster but have now brought him back on a minor league deal, likely with an invitation to Spring Training.
Why It's Important?
This move by the Pirates highlights their strategy of maintaining depth in their roster without committing to a 40-man spot during the offseason. By re-signing Simon, the Pirates retain a versatile player who can contribute both in the infield and outfield, providing flexibility in their lineup. Simon's return on a minor league deal allows the Pirates to evaluate his potential without the immediate pressure of a major league roster spot. This approach is crucial for teams like the Pirates, who are looking to build a competitive roster while managing budget constraints. Simon's performance in Triple-A suggests he has the potential to contribute at the major league level, making this a low-risk, potentially high-reward signing for Pittsburgh.
What's Next?
Ronny Simon will likely receive a non-roster invitation to the Pirates' Spring Training, where he will have the opportunity to compete for a spot on the major league roster. His performance during Spring Training will be critical in determining his role with the team moving forward. The Pirates will be monitoring his recovery from the shoulder injury and assessing his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively. If Simon can demonstrate improvement and consistency, he may find himself back in the majors, providing depth and versatility to the Pirates' lineup.
