Athletics Claim Outfielder Johnathan Rodríguez from Pirates

The Athletics have announced the acquisition of outfielder Johnathan Rodríguez, who was claimed off waivers from the Pirates and subsequently optioned to Triple-A Las Vegas.

Rodríguez, 26, was designated for assignment by Pittsburgh earlier this week after a brief stint with the team. To create a spot on the 40-man roster, outfielder Tyler Soderstrom has been moved to the 60-day injured list due to an upcoming season-ending hip surgery.

Rodríguez has had a tumultuous year, previously being designated for assignment by the Guardians and traded to the Orioles before landing with the Pirates. Despite impressive minor league statistics, including a .298 batting average and 62 home runs over 1,403 plate appearances at Triple-A, he has struggled in the majors with a .177 average in 132 plate appearances. The Athletics see potential in Rodríguez, who remains optionable for the remainder of the season.