PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Pirates have made a strategic move by acquiring infielder/outfielder Enmanuel Valdez from the Boston Red Sox in exchange for minor league right-hander Joe Vogatsky. This transaction took place on Sunday, adding depth to the Pirates’ roster.

Valdez, who is 25 years old and bats left-handed, played a total of 65 games with the Red Sox last season, registering a batting average of .214, along with six home runs and 28 runs batted in. He also showcased his power in Triple-A Worcester, where he posted a .233 average, hitting 11 home runs and driving in 30 runs over 50 games.

Making his major league debut on April 19, 2023, Valdez had begun the 2024 season on Boston’s opening-day roster. However, he was designated for assignment on Wednesday after the Red Sox brought in left-handed pitcher Garrett Crochet from the Chicago White Sox. Valdez’s career began with the Houston Astros, who signed him back in 2015. He was later traded to Boston on August 1, 2022, alongside outfielder Wilyer Abreu, in exchange for catcher Christian Vázquez.

On the other side of the trade, Joe Vogatsky, the 22-year-old right-hander, was selected in the 19th round of this year’s amateur draft after his time at James Madison University. This move highlights the Pirates’ initiative to bolster their roster while also providing the Red Sox with a promising young pitching prospect.