The Seattle Mariners have claimed outfielder Canaan Smith-Njigba off waivers from the Pirates and designated right-hander Darren McCaughan for assignment. Smith-Njigba, part of a trade that brought Jameson Taillon to the Yankees, has shown promise in the minors but has limited MLB experience. With strong walk rates and a left-handed bat, he provides outfield depth for the Mariners. McCaughan, a long-time Mariners prospect, has struggled in limited MLB appearances and will now be subject to trade or outright waivers.
The Pittsburgh Pirates have designated right-hander Chase De Jong for assignment and recalled outfielder Canaan Smith-Njigba from Triple-A Indianapolis. De Jong had a good season in 2021 but has struggled this year, posting a 13.50 ERA in 11 1/3 innings. He was previously designated for assignment in May but cleared waivers and was outrighted to Indianapolis. If he clears waivers again, he may elect free agency or accept an outright assignment.
The Pittsburgh Pirates have made more cuts, including optioning Mark Mathias to Triple-A Indianapolis and reassigning Drew Maggi, Chris Owings, and Tyler Chatwood to their minor league camp, clearing the way for rookies Ji Hwan Bae and Canaan Smith-Njigba to possibly make the Opening Day roster. There are 32 players remaining in major league camp, with Bae, Smith-Njigba, and Connor Joe contending for the final four position player spots.
