Pittsburgh Pirates have finalized a one-year contract with left-handed reliever Tim Mayza, valued at $1.15 million. The 33-year-old had a challenging 2023 season, recording a 6.33 ERA with a 0-2 record in 50 outings across the Toronto Blue Jays and New York Yankees. However, he displayed resilience during the postseason, remaining scoreless through three appearances. Mayza, who previously underwent Tommy John surgery in 2019, has rebounded well since making his return to the mound in April 2021, accumulating a career 3.88 ERA over seven seasons with the Blue Jays and Yankees, alongside four saves.

In a related move, the Pirates have designated infielder Alika Williams for assignment as part of their roster adjustments.

The Pittsburgh Pirates moved to enhance their roster by signing left-handed reliever Tim Mayza, subsequently designating infielder Alika Williams for assignment to clear space on the 40-man roster. Williams' performance in the majors last season was disappointing, with a .207 batting average and only five RBIs across 96 plate appearances. His defensive metrics also fell short, recording -1 Defensive Runs Saved. The former No. 37 overall pick by the Tampa Bay Rays, Williams joined the Pirates in June 2023 in a trade that sent pitcher Robert Stephenson to Tampa. If no team claims him in the next week, he will likely be sent to the minors.

Mayza’s addition marks the Pirates’ second significant bullpen move of the offseason, following the signing of Caleb Ferguson. Mayza's recent season saw him post a 6.33 ERA over 50 appearances with the Toronto Blue Jays and New York Yankees. The Pirates aim to bolster their pitching staff, but have made some tough decisions regarding player assignments.