Pirates Sign Mike Clevinger to Minor League Deal: A Second Chance for a Veteran
The Pittsburgh Pirates have announced a minor league deal with veteran right-hander Mike Clevinger, inviting him to spring training as a non-roster invitee. This move comes as a second chance for the 34-year-old, who has had a tumultuous career in the MLB. Clevinger's journey to the Pirates is a story of resilience and the potential for a comeback.
Clevinger's 2025 season was spent in Triple-A with the Chicago White Sox, where he posted a 4.20 ERA with league-average strikeout and walk rates. This performance followed a challenging start with the White Sox, where he was initially in the bullpen before being moved to the starting rotation. Despite his efforts, Clevinger struggled with injuries, particularly a neck injury that required surgery, limiting him to just four starts in 2024.
The Pirates' rotation has seen its fair share of changes, with the team trading away players like Mike Burrows and Johan Oviedo for offensive help. With the likes of Paul Skenes and Mitch Keller already in the fold, the Pirates are looking to add depth and experience. Clevinger's addition provides a potential fifth starter option, with Hunter Barco, Thomas Harrington, and Carmen Mlodzinski also in the running. The team's depth is further tested by the recovery of Jared Jones from a UCL surgery.
The Pirates' pursuit of Framber Valdez, a mid-rotation arm, remains a possibility, despite their usual spending habits. A minor league deal for Clevinger is seen as a low-risk move, allowing the team to add depth without impacting their pursuit of other free agents. The Pirates will need to carefully manage their Triple-A Indianapolis roster to ensure they have the necessary veteran arms to handle injuries during the season.
This move is a testament to the Pirates' commitment to giving players a second chance, and Clevinger's inclusion in spring training is an opportunity for him to showcase his skills and potentially earn a spot on the major league roster. With a history of above-average performances early in his career, Clevinger has the potential to be a valuable addition to the Pirates' rotation.
