Bixler traded

Brian Bixler was traded to the Cleveland Indians. He was moved to make room on the 40-man for newly signed Donnelly. In return for Bixler the Pirates get a 22 year old infielder, Jesus Brito, who played in Rookie and Single A last year with a .350 and higher average.

Bixler was getting better. He hit .227 in the majors this year and his defense showed that it was major league calibur. Both vast improvements over earlier stretches in the majors. But Bixler was 27 and had no hope of making the team. This might give him a path to actually play this year, so I hope it works out for him. But this is nothing but good news. There is no downside to this trade, and if Brito pans out to be even a back up this is a great move.