The Pittsburgh Pirates simply introduced that they’ve launched catcher Francisco Cervelli. No waivers, no DFA. Just his unconditional release.
Cervelli had been on a rehab assignment in the minors in his efforts to come back from a concussion. He had been sidelined since May, and there had been no timeline for his return, but he played in a minor league game as recently as Monday.
Over the summer, however, Cervelli voiced doubts about his ability to continue catching in light of the six concussions he’s weathered over the last decade. At one point he said he could not catch again but then walked it back. Whether his release was requested and whether Cervelli plans to end his big league career is not yet known.
I’m sure we’ll hear more about this soon.
UPDATE: Um, OK. Based on this I guess it’s more of a matter of the Pirates simply not wanting him anymore:
I’m told Cervelli has some sort of deal with the Atlanta Braves. Not sure if it’s major league or minor league.
— Jason Mackey (@JMackeyPG) August 22, 2019