Pirates lefty Clayton Richard has a clause in his deal that provides a 72-hour window during which Pittsburgh must make him available to other clubs, Nathan Baird of JConline.com reports. That “upward mobility” provision went into effect today.
Here’s how it works, per the report: If another team is willing to put the veteran hurler on its big league roster, then the Pirates must either deal him to that club or, instead, add him to their own 25-man roster. In the event that no suitor emerges, however, then the Bucs can keep Richard at Triple-A.
Once a 200-inning starter for the Padres, the 31-year-old fell apart in 2013, struggling to a 7.01 ERA and ultimately undergoing shoulder surgery. He has not returned to the big leagues since, but is thriving this year at Triple-A Indianapolis. Over 62 frames in ten starts, Richard owns a 1.89 ERA with 4.4 K/9 against 2.0 BB/9.
Richard expressed interest in continuing his career with the Pirates, but said he is ready to do so at the major league level. “I can’t say what they see,” said Richard. “I know what I feel, and I’m to the point now where I’m ready to face big league competition.”
He also tells Baird that he’s more than willing to work from the pen to get back to the majors. Richard previously declined an opportunity to opt out of his deal at the start of the season, though this time around the decision seems to be out of his hands entirely.
Wouldn’t mind it if the stros gave this guy a chance as their 5th starter/long relief guy. Starting rotation of Keuchel, McHugh, McCullers and Velasquez looks pretty strong but McCullers and Velasquez are rookies and will be limited by innings. Feldman will be back soon but Richard seems like a stronger candidate to be 5th starter or long relief than Roberto Hernandez, Brett Oberholtzer or Dan Straily.
Someone should bite on this…particularly if they need BP help.
i think he stays with the bucs. though the decision is out of his hands.