Pirates finalize $1.35M contract with RHP Donnelly

Jan 18, 2010 - 11:41 PM PITTSBURGH(AP) -- Right-hander Brendan Donnelly finalized a $1.35 million, one-year contract with the Pirates on Monday, giving Pittsburgh another option in its veteran-thin bullpen.

Once one of the majors' top strikeout relievers as a setup man with the Angels, Donnelly has been limited to 45 games the last two seasons since reconstructive elbow surgery in August 2007. He was required to pass a physical before the Pirates completed the contract.

The 38-year-old Donnelly, who can earn bonuses based on relief appearances, was 3-0 with two saves and a 1.78 ERA in 30 games with Florida last season.

"Brendan Donnelly is a veteran setup type reliever who brings experience, toughness and determination to our bullpen," general manager Neal Huntington said.

Pittsburgh are without an established closer after allowing Matt Capps to become a free agent. Donnelly is not expected to be a candidate for that job.

While right-handers Joel Hanrahan and Evan Meek appear to be the only pitchers set in their bullpen, the Pirates have signed right-handers D.J. Carrasco and Brian Bass to minor league contracts along with left-hander Javier Lopez. Carrasco and Bass were 1-2 among AL relievers in innings pitched last season.

Pittsburgh cleared a spot on its 40-man roster for Donnelly by trading infielder Brian Bixler to Cleveland for infielder prospect Jesus Brito.