The Pittsburgh Pirates claimed infielder/outfielder Niko Goodrum off waivers from the Los Angeles Angels on Monday.
The Pirates optioned the 32-year-old Goodrum to Triple-A Indianapolis.
Pittsburgh designated right-hander Ben Heller for assignment to open a 40-man roster spot for Goodrum, who is batting .103 (3-for-29) in 13 big league games this season.
Goodrum was hitless in 13 at-bats in four games for the Angels. He also played in nine games earlier this season for the Tampa Bay Rays and went 3-for-16 with a run scored.
The Angels claimed Goodrum off waivers from the Rays on May 9.
Goodrum has a .224 career average with 42 homers and 152 RBIs in 415 games over parts of seven major league seasons with the Minnesota Twins (2017), Detroit Tigers (2018-21), Houston Astros (2022), Rays and Angels.
Heller, 32, gave up 12 runs (11 earned) and nine hits in two innings over two relief appearances with Pittsburgh this season.
–Field Level Media
