Pirates claim pitcher Robert Stephenson off waivers from Colorado

August 27th, 2022

The Pittsburgh Pirates today claimed right-handed pitcher Robert Stephenson off waivers from the Colorado Rockies.

The 29-year-old Stephenson went 2-1 with a 6.04 ERA (44.2ip/30er) and 37 strikeouts in 45 appearances this season with the Rockies before being designated for assignment on August 25. Stephenson did not allow a run in seven straight and nine of his 10 appearances leading up to the All-Star break before being scored upon in six of his last eight appearances with the Rockies prior to being designated for assignment.

Stephenson has gone 14-15 with two saves, a 4.97 ERA (298.2ip/165er) and 311 strikeouts in 198 appearances (22 starts) in his big-league career with Cincinnati (2016-20) and Colorado (2021-22).

To make room for Stephenson on the 40-man roster, infielder Kevin Padlo has been designated for assignment.

The Pirates will make a corresponding move on the 26-man active roster when Stephenson joins the team.

Stephenson will wear uniform #41.