Perrotto: Improvement in One Area Makes Canaan Njigba-Smith Intriguing (+)

PITTSBURGH – Canaan Smith-Njigba’s latest stint in the major leagues could be short-lived.

When the Pittsburgh Pirates return to action Tuesday night in Chicago following their second off day in five days Monday, they will likely add a pitcher to the roster and drop a hitter.

Smith-Njigba figures to be the most likely position player to go despite just being recalled from Triple-A Indianapolis on Friday. Nevertheless, the rookie outfielder is starting to show that he could be more than just a weekend fill-in at the major-league level.

After making the opening-day roster, then struggling early in the season, Smith-Njigba was optioned to Indianapolis on April 26. He responded by hitting .245/.339/.547 with seven home runs in 28 games.