Pirates claim Brent Morel from Blue Jays

Jul 20, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago White Sox third baseman Brent Morel (22) hits a RBI single against the Atlanta Braves during the fourth inning at US Cellular Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

The Pittsburgh Pirates announced today that they have claimed infielder Brent Morel off waivers from the Toronto Blue Jays. Morel was designated for assignment last week to make room for RHP Liam Hendricks, who was claimed off waivers From the Baltimore Orioles.

Morel was brought in by the Jays to compete for the job at second base. It would have been the first time playing the position for the former Baseball America Top 100 prospect at the major league level. He holds a career OPS of .609 and according to MLB Trade Rumors a bulging disk in his back has been a factor in his declining play over the years. However at 26 there’s a chance he could still break through if his health holds up.

I’m sure the Blue Jays are hoping Hendricks works out for them much the way RHP Todd Redmond did last year after he was also claimed from the Orioles. As for Brent Morel, we hardly knew you.