Pirates release veterans Tellez and Taylor for rising prospects

On Tuesday, the Pittsburgh Pirates made significant roster changes by releasing veterans Rowdy Tellez and Michael A. Taylor. This decision was made with only six games remaining in the season and the team already eliminated from playoff contention. Tellez, who had a challenging start to the season, managed to finish with a batting average of .243, hitting 13 home runs and driving in 56 runs over 131 games. He had been signed to a one-year contract in the offseason. Michael A. Taylor, also signed to a one-year deal, struggled throughout the season, posting a .193 batting average with five home runs, 21 RBIs, and 12 stolen bases in 113 games. His playing time had decreased recently due to the Pirates' decision to shift shortstop Oneil Cruz to center field, further limiting Taylor's opportunities. In light of these releases, the Pirates promoted two prospects from Triple-A Indianapolis: infielder Liover Peguero and outfielder Josh Palacios. Peguero had an impressive season in the minors, leading all Pirates minor leaguers with 127 hits, 79 RBIs, and 29 doubles, while also tying for second in extra-base hits with 46. Palacios had previously played 20 games with the Pirates earlier in the season, hitting .230 with two home runs and seven RBIs. These moves reflect the Pirates' strategy to focus on developing younger talent as they look toward the future, signaling a shift in their roster composition as they prepare for the upcoming seasons.