Gregory Polanco Starting Tonight Despite Being Placed on Waivers

Pirates manager Derek Shelton said that not only is Gregory Polanco active tonight, but is starting for the Pirates in right field tonight.

Derek Shelton says Gregory Polanco is starting in right field tonight

— Mike Persak (@MikeDPersak) August 23, 2021

Polanco was placed on outright waivers yesterday, but still remains on the Pirates’ roster until another team claims him – if that happens. Since Polanco was not designated for assignment or released, by rule, he is allowed to be in uniform for the club until the waiver status is settled. It was reported yesterday by Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post Gazette that Polanco is expected to remain with the Pirates if no team places a claim

Polanco has struggled at the plate this year, hitting just .199 with a .621 OPS in 102 games.

The other 29 teams in Major League baseball have until tomorrow to claim Polanco.