New Pirates Reliever Yohan Ramirez Hopes Third Time Charm

Yohan Ramirez is playing for his third major league team this season but all the changing of uniforms doesn’t bother him.

The Pirates recalled the right-handed reliever from Triple-A Indianapolis prior to Wednesday night’s game against the Milwaukee Brewers at PNC Park. He made seven relief appearances for the Seattle Mariners in April and one for the Cleveland Guardians on June 24.

The Pirates acquired him from the Guardians on July 8 for cash considerations and optioned him to Indianapolis. In four games with Indy, Ramirez pitched four scoreless innings while allowing only one hit.

The 27-year-old began the season with the Mariners then was traded to the Guardians on May 16. Between the two teams, he went 1-0 with a 6.97 ERA.

“To be honest, I can’t say it’s been difficult at all,” Ramirez said of switching teams. “I feel like I’ve been blessed to be in every organization. When I was in Cleveland, they were able to help me make some adjustments that I really needed, and it’s helped out a lot.

“Then coming here and being poured into and making those adjustments with my mechanics and sprinkling in some other things to help me become a complete MLB player, I don’t think it’s been challenging or difficult. I’m grateful to be able to learn something in each organization.”

Ramirez made his major league debut with the Mariners in 2020 and had a 3.35 ERA in 41 games over his first two seasons.

Ramirez made a strong enough impression at Indianapolis to get a relatively quick promotion to the major leagues. He takes the roster spot of All-Star closer David Bednar, who was placed on the 15-day injured list with low back inflammation.

The Pirates also recalled infielder/outfielder Tucupita Marcano from Indianapolis and designated first baseman Yoshi Tsutsugo for assignment.

“To be the honest, since the moment I got here, we’ve been working and working on my mechanics,” said Ramirez, who has shortened his arm stroke. “(The Pirates) did a lot of homework on me, and I was able to make some adjustments and I’m starting to see the results.”