The Pittsburgh Pirates have reportedly acquired relief pitcher Camilo Doval from the New York Yankees in exchange for two prospects, pending a physical for the players involved.
The deal comes as a boost to the Pirates' struggling bullpen, which has registered 24 of the team's 56 losses this season. The Pirates' pen has the fifth-most losses in MLB and the sixth-most blown saves.
The Pirates have been in need of a reliable relief arm, and Doval's addition could provide a much-needed spark. The 26-year-old right-handed reliever has a 3-1 record and a 4.54 ERA in 44 appearances for the Yankees this season.
Doval is known for his plus fastball and has struck out 39 batters in 39.3 innings of work this year. He has primarily featured his sinker, cutter, and slider as his three main pitches this season.
The Pirates are hoping that Doval's addition will help to shore up their bullpen and improve their chances of making a push for the playoffs. The team currently sits 15 games back in the National League Central division.
Meanwhile, the Yankees are receiving two unproven prospects in return for Doval. Luis Cruz, an 18-year-old outfielder, has played in 17 games for the Pirates' Black and Gold teams and is slashing .313/.460/.396 with seven RBI.
Omar Alfonzo, a 22-year-old catcher/first baseman, has been on the rise through the Pirates' minor league system this year. He has played in 60 games at the Double-A level and is slashing .238/.337/.419 with nine home runs and 35 RBI.
The trade is the latest move in a busy offseason for both teams, with the Pirates looking to bolster their roster and the Yankees seeking to restock their farm system. The deal is pending a physical for the players involved, and it's unclear when the trade will be officially completed.
Source: Yahoo Sports