The Pirates released pitcher John Holdzkom Monday, according to reports.
John Holdzkom cleared waivers, but the #Pirates were unable to outright him to Triple-A because he wasn’t “healthy”. Thus, the release.
— Tim Williams (@timwilliamsP2) April 11, 2016
Holdzkom, an asset for the 2014 Pirates toward the end of the season, was designated for assignment April 3, when it was clear that the right-handed pitcher was not a part of the Pirates Opening Day roster plans.
It was widely reported that Holdzkom’s velocity was down a few miles-per-hour. Holdzkom battled injuries throughout 2015, as the arm that helped him overcome the odds to make the Pirates roster in 2014 finally let him down.
This move should not come as much of a surprise as the Pirates could sign Holdzkom to a minor league deal. Being designated for assignment, a release is one of the options that can occur.
His spot on the 40-man roster was eliminated upon being designated for assignment, and Holdzkom could just sign a more club-friendly deal to join the team. It would not be uncommon as both Guido Knudson and Casey Sadler each did this prior to the start of this season.
When Pirates general manager Neal Huntington spoke with reporters in Spring Training, he did not necessarily say Holdzkom was injured again, but that the ball did not come out of his hand in a way it usually does.
Holdzkom had not yet appeared in a game this season and would have started in Triple-A Indianapolis, which now has another injury concern in Trevor Williams, who was removed from his start Sunday with right shoulder discomfort.
If Holdzkom is indeed lost, the Altoona Curve have started Jason Creasy, Tyler Eppler and Clay Holmes. Creasy and Eppler each have an ERA and Eppler has a win.
With Holdzkom not having played a game, though, the Indians may not necessarily have to do anything to replace him.
