Pirates Trade: Buccos Pick Up Utility Man Enmanuel Valdez

The Pirates swung their second major trade of the offseason on Sunday, Dec. 15, acquiring 25-year-old utility man Enmanuel Valdez from the Boston Red Sox in return for right-handed pitcher Joe Vogatsky, a 2024 draft pick.

Valdez stands 5-foot-8 and weighs 191 pounds. He made the Red Sox’ Opening Day roster in 2024, ultimately appearing in 76 big league games with the team between a handful of stints in the minors. Primarily playing at second base, Valdez also tried his hand at third and in left field. A lefty bat, Valdez slashed .214/.270/.363 with 12 doubles and six homers, striking out nearly 25 percent of the time.

With Nick Gonzales the presumptive starter at second base, Valdez should slot into a backup role, his versatility providing plenty of chances to find his way into the lineup.

Vogatsky, in contrast, came to the Pirates as a 19th round draft pick out of JMU. He has yet to make a professional appearance. Although Pittsburgh signed him to a minor league contract on July 26, many recent draftees get the rest of the season off, especially with rookie ball wrapping up toward the end of July. Vogatsky pitched to a 3.49 ERA in 49 relief innings for the Dukes in 2024, striking out 46 batters.

Valdez fills a spot on the Pirates’ 40-man roster, which now sits at 37 players.