Perrotto: Mathias Gets His Chance to Impress Pirates (+)

PITTSBURGH – Spring training trades have become increasingly rare in recent years.

However, when the Texas Rangers made utility player Mark Mathias available in mid-March, the Pittsburgh Pirates were intrigued. They liked the 28-year-old’s versatility and hitting potential.

So, the Pirates swung a trade March 8, acquiring Mathis for the relatively low cost of minor-league pitcher Ricky DiVito.

Mathias didn’t make the team out of spring training but now finds himself with the Pirates. He was recalled from Triple-A Indianapolis on Monday, a day after shortstop Oneil Cruz sustained a broken left ankle that will likely sideline him until at least August.