Pittsburgh Pirates have finalized a one-year contract with left-handed reliever Tim Mayza, valued at $1.15 million. The 33-year-old had a challenging 2023 season, recording a 6.33 ERA with a 0-2 record in 50 outings across the Toronto Blue Jays and New York Yankees. However, he displayed resilience during the postseason, remaining scoreless through three appearances. Mayza, who previously underwent Tommy John surgery in 2019, has rebounded well since making his return to the mound in April 2021, accumulating a career 3.88 ERA over seven seasons with the Blue Jays and Yankees, alongside four saves.

In a related move, the Pirates have designated infielder Alika Williams for assignment as part of their roster adjustments.

The Pittsburgh Pirates have signed left-hander Tim Mayza to a one-year contract worth $1.15 million. Mayza, 33, previously played for the Toronto Blue Jays and the New York Yankees, where he had a challenging season last year with a 6.33 ERA over 50 relief appearances, resulting in a 0-2 record. However, he showcased his skill during the postseason, managing to not allow a run in three appearances with the Yankees. Over his seven MLB seasons, he holds a record of 20 wins and 9 losses with a career 3.88 ERA and four saves. His journey includes recovering from Tommy John surgery in 2019, and he successfully returned to the major leagues in April 2021.

The Pittsburgh Pirates moved to enhance their roster by signing left-handed reliever Tim Mayza, subsequently designating infielder Alika Williams for assignment to clear space on the 40-man roster. Williams' performance in the majors last season was disappointing, with a .207 batting average and only five RBIs across 96 plate appearances. His defensive metrics also fell short, recording -1 Defensive Runs Saved. The former No. 37 overall pick by the Tampa Bay Rays, Williams joined the Pirates in June 2023 in a trade that sent pitcher Robert Stephenson to Tampa. If no team claims him in the next week, he will likely be sent to the minors.

Mayza’s addition marks the Pirates’ second significant bullpen move of the offseason, following the signing of Caleb Ferguson. Mayza's recent season saw him post a 6.33 ERA over 50 appearances with the Toronto Blue Jays and New York Yankees. The Pirates aim to bolster their pitching staff, but have made some tough decisions regarding player assignments.

The New York Yankees' farm system is experiencing a shift as several top prospects have moved up to the major leagues or been traded away. Notably, Anthony Volpe and Austin Wells are no longer considered prospects, and Drew Thorpe was traded in the deal for Juan Soto. The latest preseason prospect lists show limited representation for the Yankees, with only Jasson Domínguez and George Lombard Jr. making the cut. Domínguez is seen as a promising talent but has faced challenges, while Lombard is still developing.

Despite this, the Yankees have made significant investments in young talent, including the recent signing of 16-year-old shortstop Mani Cedeno. The Yankees' farm system ranks lower than rivals like the Tampa Bay Rays and Baltimore Orioles, but they have a history of developing successful players.

The New York Yankees' bullpen was a key strength during their postseason, featuring multiple relievers with impressive ERAs. However, the departure of left-handed pitchers Tim Mayza and Tim Hill leaves a gap that needs addressing.

Re-signing Hill, who excelled in New York with a 2.05 ERA, is a top priority. His postseason performance was stellar, and he has a strong playoff track record. The Yankees typically prefer budget-friendly options for their bullpen, but Hill's return could provide the stability they need.