Pirates sign Newman, cut Kuhl
Their starter on opening day and a reliever late, Chad Kuhl’s 2021 season ran the gamut. And now, after the Pirates non-tendered him Tuesday night, he’ll become a free agent, another player gone.
Kuhl was one of four arbitration-eligible players left after a busy couple of days for the Pirates, where they designated Colin Moran and Steven Brault for assignment, traded Jacob Stallings to the Marlins and came to terms with Ben Gamel.
Also Tuesday, the Pirates avoided arbitration with Kevin Newman, signing him to a $1.95 million contract for 2022, a source confirmed.
The Pirates tendered contracts, as expected, to Bryan Reynolds and Chris Stratton, meaning they’re comfortable going through the arbitration process with them, if it would happen to get that far.
Marlins
Miami completed the signing of right- hander Sandy Alcantara (9-15, 3.19 ERA) to a five-year contract after they agreed to a deal with $56 million and an option for a sixth season.
White Sox
Kendall Graveman, 30, agred to a three-year, $24 million contract to join Chicago’s bullpen, where he is expected to pitch in front of closer Liam Hendriks.
Tigers
Javier Baez, 29, agreed to a six-year, $140 million, sixyear contract with Detroit, giving the Tigers a dynamic bat for the middle of their order. Báez hit .265 with 31 homers and 87 RBIs in 138 games with the Cubs and Mets this season.
Angels
Right- hander Michael Lorenzen agreed to a $6.75 million, one-year contract after spending his first seven major league seasons with the Cincinnati Reds, making 295 appearances. He is 23-23 with a 4.07 ERA, 14 saves and 406 strikeouts. Lorenzen also is an excellent hitter for a pitcher, batting .233 over his career with seven homers and 24 RBIs in 147 career plate appearances.
Cubs
Catcher Yan Gomes agreed to a two-year, $13 million deal and will pair with Willson Contreras, who is eligible for free agency after next season.
Braves
Atlanta locked up manager Brian Snitker for three more seasons after he guided the team to its first World Series title since 1995, exercising the option on his contract for the 2024 season.