The Pirates have claimed infielder Ildemaro Vargas off waivers from the Chicago Cubs. The 29-year-old switch hitter appeared in nine games with the Cubs this season, going 3-for-21 with two doubles and two RBI before being designated for assignment on May 15. He made four appearances (three starts) at second base and two appearances (one start) at shortstop.

Vargas made his Major League debut with Arizona in 2017 and has played in 151 big league games with the Diamondbacks (2017-2020), Twins (2020) and Cubs (2020-21). He has made 65 appearances at second base, 21 at third base, eight at second base, seven at shortstop, five at first base, one at third base and one each in left field and right field during his Major League career.

Vargas will be wearing uniform #45.

To make room on the 40-man, and active roster, Troy Stokes, Jr, has been designated for assignment. In eight games with the Pirates after being selected to the big league roster on May 9, Stokes, Jr. went 2-for-18 with a double and two RBI.