The Pittsburgh Pirates claimed catcher Michael Perez off waivers from the Tampa Bay Rays as they made a flurry of moves on Friday.
Perez, a 28-year-old from Puerto Rico, batted .167 with three doubles, a home run and 13 RBIs in 38 games this past season. He also went 2 for 7 with three RBIs in the postseason, hitting a home run in Game 3 of the AL Division Series against the New York Yankees.
Known for his defense, Perez threw out six of 19 base runners (32%) this season and 27% (15 of 55) in 84 games over three seasons with the Rays.
The Pirates also reinstated infielder-outfielder Kevin Kramer, catcher Luke Maile, right-handed pitcher Yacksel Rios and outfielder Jason Martin from the injured list and optioned them off the 40-man roster.
Backup catcher John Ryan Murphy cleared waivers and was optioned, as well.
The Minnesota Twins claimed left-hander Brandon Waddell (0-0, 2.70) off waivers and the New York Mets claimed right-hander Nick Tropeano (1-0, 1.15).
