MLB.com is reporting that, citing a source, the Pirates have acquired relief pitcher Luke Weaver from the New York Mets in exchange for the Pirates No. 9 prospect, shortstop Sammy Stafura.
Weaver, who turns 33 later this month, has bounced back from a difficult April to become one of baseball’s most dominant relievers over the past three months. During that stretch, he has posted a sparkling 1.84 ERA while striking out 45 batters in 44 innings. He also brings valuable experience pitching in a major media market and under postseason pressure, having served as the New York Yankees’ closer during their run to the American League pennant two years ago. Weaver is under contract with an $11 million salary for next season.
Stafura, 21, a New York native acquired by the Pirates from the Cincinnati Reds in last year’s Ke’Bryan Hayes trade, is putting together a breakout season at Single-A. The slick-fielding infielder is slashing .276/.367/.593 with 20 home runs, including a remarkable 14 in July alone. His defensive ability helped earn him the No. 9 spot in Pittsburgh’s prospect rankings by MLB Pipeline, and his offensive surge is quickly raising his profile.
The Pirates swung the deal with just a few hours left before the trade deadline at 6 pm today (Monday).
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