One of the top signings for the Pirates this off-season was officially introduced to the fans yesterday.
The team yesterday officially announced the signing of first baseman and designated hitter Carlos Santana, saying it will be a one-year deal. Santana played with the Seattle Mariners last season and hit 19 home runs and 60 RBIs.
Through a team interpreter, Santana said the Pirates made it a priority to sign him.
General Manager Ben Cherington said Santana has shown great leadership skills on and off the diamond.
Cherington adds that the team is still considering signing more players. Rob Biertempfel of The Athletic tweeted that the Pirates have shown interest in RHP Kyle Gibson, who played in Phildelphia last season, and former Pirates Jose Quintana, who the team traded to St. Louis in July for pitcher Johan Oviedo and prospect Malcom Nunez.
The Pirates will need to clear a 40-man roster spot to make room for Santana. They said a move was to be made yesterday; however, no such move came about.