Pirates acquire lefty Lobstein from Tigers
PITTSBURGH -- The Pirates bolstered their pitching depth on Monday by acquiring left-hander Kyle Lobstein from the Tigers in exchange for cash considerations.
Lobstein, 26, was designated for assignment by the Tigers on Friday. He is expected to compete for a spot as a long reliever in the Pirates' bullpen this spring. Lobstein has Minor League options remaining, so if he doesn't break camp with the Major League club, he should add to Pittsburgh's starting depth with Triple-A Indianapolis.
Lobstein made his Major League debut in 2014, posting a 1-2 record and a 4.35 ERA in seven appearances, including six starts. He opened last season in the Tigers' rotation and made eight starts before going on the disabled list with left shoulder inflammation. He returned in September to make five more appearances, finishing the year 3-8 with a 5.94 ERA.
A second-round pick by the Rays in the 2008 Draft, Lobstein was selected by the Mets in the 2012 Rule 5 Draft before being flipped to the Tigers the same day. In parts of seven Minor League seasons, Lobstein owns a 52-51 record and a 3.83 ERA.
With the addition of Lobstein, the Pirates' 40-man roster is now full.