Lefty Zagurski opts to explore free agency

CINCINNATI -- After being designated for assignment Saturday and clearing waivers Tuesday, left-hander Mike Zagurski opted to enter free agency.

The Pirates thought they had a solid reliever in Zagurski after his Spring Training camp as a non-roster invitee. He gave the organization an even better impression as he posted a 2.14 ERA with 37 strikeouts in 21 innings for Triple-A Indianapolis.

Zagurski carried the momentum into the big leagues when he was called up and first appeared against the Tigers on May 27, striking out one and walking another in a scoreless inning. He allowed 10 runs in five innings, walking seven in his subsequent outings. His struggles peaked on June 13, when he surrendered five runs on six hits in one inning against the Giants.