The 26-year-old Ali Sánchez, who spent the entirety of the previous season with the Triple-A affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks in Reno, showcased impressive stats, boasting a .311 batting average with 10 doubles, 11 home runs, and 43 RBIs across 67 games.
The Pittsburgh Pirates, catcher Ali Sánchez has officially inked a 1-year contract, strengthening the team’s options behind the plate alongside Endy Rodriguez and Henry Davis
Notably, he demonstrated his defensive prowess by thwarting 22 base runners. Despite having only participated in seven major league games five with the New York Mets in 2020 and two with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2021. Ali Sánchez’s arrival introduces a valuable element of flexibility to the Pirates’ catching lineup. General Manager Ben Cherington, emphasizing the potential of top 2021 draft pick Henry Davis behind the plate, acknowledges the competition but underscores the importance of having Ali Sánchez as an additional asset. It is noteworthy that Davis, following his major league debut in June, primarily played in right field.
The Pirates have also bolstered their pitching staff by claiming right-handed pitcher Roddery Muñoz off waivers from the Washington Nationals
A 23-year-old talent, Muñoz compiled a mixed record of 4-6 with a 5.42 ERA across 34 appearances at various minor league levels during the 2023 season.
Ali Sánchez’s signing emerges as a strategic move for the Pirates, injecting depth and competition into the catcher position, ultimately enhancing the team’s overall roster as they prepare for the upcoming season.