Pirates Trade For Mike McKenry
Pittsburgh (KDKA)- Pirates GM Neal Huntington is making an attempt to fix the Pirates problem at the catcher's position.
The Pirates have traded for Michael McKenry from the Boston Red Sox in exchange for a player to be named later or cash considerations.
"Oh it's a huge shock. It's my little kid dream to play big league baseball," McKenry said. "I kind of just threw all my stuff down and said, 'Alright, let's go. I'm ready.' I wanted to get here as soon as possible, and try and get in the lineup and play."
The 26-year-old was hitting .274 (26 for 95) with five doubles, three homers and 12 RBI in 29 games with AAA Pawtucket this season.
Pirates manager Clint Hurdle said McKenry is a "baseball rat."
"He wants to learn," Hurdle said. "He wants to get better. He's excited about this opportunity. We'll see where the opportunity to play and the playing time takes him."
This won't be McKenry's MLB debut, having already played six games with Colorado during the 2010 season.
McKenry was originally selected by the Rockies in the seventh round of the 2006 First-Year Player Draft.
McKenry was acquired by Boston from Colorado this past spring on March 29 in exchange for pitcher Daniel Turpen.
To make room on the 40-man roster, the Pirates have designated catcher Wyatt Toregas for assignment.
