Former Rangers first-round pick signs minor league deal with Pirates

Former Rangers infielder Davis Wendzel, Pittsburgh Pirates agree to minor league deal

The Pittsburgh Pirates have signed former Rangers infielder Davis Wendzel to a minor league deal with an invite to big league spring training, according to The New York Post's Jon Heyman. Wendzel, whom the Rangers selected in the first round (41st overall) of the 2018 MLB Draft out of Baylor University, will make $850 thousand if he cracks the Pirates' 26-man roster.

Wendzel has played in just 27 MLB games, all with the Rangers in 2024. He hit .128/.163/.234 (15 OPS+) with one home run and two RBI over 49 plate appearances with Texas.

The Rangers designated Wendzel for assignment on July 29, 2024. He was then traded to the Cincinnati Reds for cash. The Reds outrighted him a few weeks later, and he became a minor league free agent at the conclusion of the season, leading to the Pirates signing him.

Wendzel, who has played all infield spots and left field during his professional career, has hit .248/.355/.444 in 1,240 plate appearances in the minors over the past three seasons.

Wendzel has good chance to make Pirates' big league roster given lack of team's established infielders

Wendzel likely was happy to sign with the Pirates, as the team is still trying to determine who will be the everyday infielders. Spencer Horwitz will hold down first base, but shortstop, second and third base are still question marks for Pittsburgh, meaning Wendzel likely has a chance to grab a starting spot, or at least a bench role, if he can impress during next year's spring training.

Other Pirates infielders who will likely be competing for a starting spot this spring include Konnor Griffin, Nick Yorke, Jared Triolo, Nick Gonzalez, Enmanuel Valdéz and Tsung-Che Cheng. It's also possible that Pittsburgh will look to add an established infielder via free agency or the trade market. After all, MLB.com's Mark Feinsand has reported that the Pirates may add $30-40 million more to their payroll this offseason.

If Wendzel makes Pittsburgh's 26-man roster next season, he will have the opportunity to play against his former team when the Rangers host the Pirates for a three-game set from April 21-23.