The Pittsburgh Pirates today acquired infielder Sean Rodriguez from the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for a player to be named and cash considerations. The announcement was made by Pirates Executive Vice President, General Manager Neal Huntington. To make room for Rodriguez on the 40-man roster, first baseman Gaby Sanchez has been designated for assignment.
The 29-year-old Rodriguez hit .211 (50-for-237) with 13 doubles, three triples and a career-high 12 home runs and 41 RBI in 96 games last season with the Rays. He made 23 appearances (14 starts) at second base, 18 appearances (14 starts) at first base, 17 appearances (12 starts) in left field, nine appearances (seven starts) at third base, two appearances in right field and one start at shortstop.
Rodriguez, who was designated for assignment by Tampa Bay on November 26, was originally selected by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in the third round of the 2003 First-Year Player Draft.