In the ever-evolving world of Major League Baseball, rosters are in a constant state of flux, and the Pittsburgh Pirates are no exception. Recently, the team bid farewell to right-handed reliever Tanner Rainey, who’s now on the hunt for opportunities with another organization.
The decision to designate Rainey for assignment came on June 2, as the Pirates acquired utility player Ronny Simón off waivers from the Miami Marlins. With roster spots always at a premium, Rainey was the odd man out, making way for Simón’s arrival. After the Pirates outrighted him to Triple-A Indianapolis, Rainey opted for free agency, seeking a fresh start in the big leagues.
Rainey’s journey with the Pirates was a whirlwind. Initially signed to a minor league contract on December 6, he began the year with Indianapolis following a stint on the 7-day Injured List. His numbers at Triple-A were solid if unspectacular: in nine appearances, he posted a 6.00 ERA over 9.0 innings, striking out 12 while issuing four walks, holding batters to a .212 average.
The Pirates saw potential and selected his contract on May 3, a move prompted by a shuffle in their bullpen necessitated by injuries to other players. Yet, Rainey’s performance in the majors was rocky. Across 7.2 innings, he logged a 10.57 ERA, giving up nine earned runs and allowing opponents to hit .250 against him. While he did manage eight scoreless appearances, his struggles to maintain consistency were notable, particularly in key moments against the Atlanta Braves and Milwaukee Brewers.
Rainey’s challenges crescendoed in his final game for Pittsburgh, a disappointing 6-4 loss to the San Diego Padres on June 1. Entrusted with a 4-2 lead, Rainey struggled with command, issuing crucial walks and surrendering an RBI single that swung momentum. In a bid to salvage the situation, manager Don Kelly called on lefty Caleb Ferguson, who unfortunately couldn’t slam the door, leading to a late-game collapse.
By June 3, the Pirates ushered in right-handed pitcher Kyle Nicolas from Indianapolis to step into Rainey’s role. The current bullpen setup now includes righties Braxton Ashcraft, David Bednar, Chase Shugart, Dennis Santana, alongside Nicolas, with left-handers Ryan Borucki, Caleb Ferguson, and Joey Wentz rounding out the crew.
As MLB’s carousel keeps turning, Rainey’s departure opens one door as it closes another. The Pirates, meanwhile, continue to tinker with their roster in pursuit of a winning formula. Whether Rainey lands another opportunity soon remains to be seen, but the nature of baseball suggests he won’t be without options for long.
