The Tampa Rays claimed OF Jake Goebbert off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates Wednesday, reports the Tampa Bay Times. The move comes just three days after the Pirates designated Goebbert for assignment.
The Pirates put Goebbert on waivers to help make room for OF Matt Joyce, pitcher Cory Luebke and infielder Cole Figueroa on the club's 40-man roster. The left-handed hitter and fielder will report to the Rays' Triple-A team.
Goebbert wasn't expected to make the Pirates' Opening Day roster, and his struggles this spring assured he wouldn't. Goebbert hit just .194 this spring. The loss of Goebbert shouldn't be a major one for the Pirates.
The 28-year old outfielder was a 13th-round pick by the Houston Astros in 2009. He made his MLB debut in 2014, with the San Diego Padres, making two stints with the major league club. Goebbert hit .218 in 101 at-bats in the 51 games he played in 2014 and can also play first base if needed.
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