General manager Ben Cherington has reached an agreement with the Arizona Diamondbacks as the Pittsburgh Pirates close up Spring Training in Bradenton this week and finalize their roster for the upcoming season.
The Pirates acquired Josh VanMeter, a three-year experienced infielder, from the DBacks in exchange for minor league pitcher Listher Sosa.
The organization designated Jared Oliva for assignment to make room on the 40-man roster. VanMeter, who is 27 years old, batted. In 112 games with Arizona, he batted 212 times, drove in 36 runs, and hit six home runs.
He began his career with the Cincinnati Reds in 2019 before being traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks in the middle of 2020.
VanMeter is a second baseman who has also played every position on the diamond except shortstop and catcher.
With the team hesitating to call up Oneil Cruz and Rodolfo Castro on a permanent basis, VanMeter gives the squad another infield alternative.
It also improves the outfield, putting struggling outfielders like Anthony Alford’s spot on the squad in jeopardy.
VanMeter’s role in Pittsburgh is tough to predict, but his versatility will serve him well, and the fact that he was acquired so soon after the season began shows how highly the front management values him in the city.
Where Is Josh Vanmeter Now?
Josh Vanmeter is now with the Pittsburgh Pirates.