PITTSBURGH -- On Sunday morning, the Pirates announced they had designated left-hander Enny Romero for assignment. After their 5-0 win over the Cardinals, the Bucs issued a correction and placed Romero on the 10-day disabled list instead.
The Pirates initially removed Romero from their active roster to make room for right-hander Nick Kingham, who turned in a dominant Major League debut. But instead of being cut loose, Romero will remain in the Pirates organization while he recovers from a left shoulder impingement. The disabled list assignment is retroactive to Thursday.
The Pirates claimed Romero off waivers from the Nationals on April 14 and used him sparingly over the past two weeks. Romero has made two appearances for Pittsburgh, allowing five runs (two earned) on seven hits and three walks while striking out five in four innings. He also hit an RBI double in his Pirates debut. Romero's average fastball velocity has dipped to 95.2 mph this season, according to Statcast™, down from 97.9 mph last year.
The Bucs have been carrying eight relievers since Opening Day. It is possible that left-hander Steven Brault could soon move back into the bullpen, lessening the Bucs' need for another lefty reliever like Romero. General manager Neal Huntington has also said the Pirates might rebalance their roster at some point, returning to a more traditional five-man bench and seven-man bullpen.