The Pirates opted to protect most of their top prospects who were eligible for the Rule 5 Draft this year, selecting the contracts of outfielder/first baseman Esmerlyn Valdez ( No. 15 on MLB Pipeline’s list of the top Pirates prospects), infielder Jack Brannigan ( No. 21 ), left-hander Tyler Samaniego and right-handers Wilber Dotel ( No. 28 ), Antwone Kelly and Brandan Bidois.

To make room on the roster, right-handers Dauri Moreta and Colin Holderman, utilityman Ronny Simon and outfielder Alexander Canario have been designated for assignment . Infielder Cam Devanney was released to pursue an opportunity overseas.

Signings & Trades

Valdez was one of the top hitters in the Pirates’ farm system this year, slashing .286/.376/.520 with 26 home runs and 25 doubles between High-A Gre

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