Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Pirates Claim Xavier Paul

The Pittsburgh Pirates have claimed outfielder Xavier Paul off waivers from the Dodgers. Paul has seen action as a backup each season since 2009, playing in 44 games with the Dodgers last year. He can play both corner outfield positions but no infield positions. His Major League numbers aren't impressive but he seems to hit righties a touch better, though still not great at the Major League level.

He has excelled at AAA Albuquerque in the PCL a notorious hitter's league. Last season he did put up an impressive .325/.384/.579 line, including 33 extra base hits in just 228 at bats.

Paul will join an already somewhat crowded outfield due to the platoon situation. Personally I would think Pearce would be optioned to Triple A with the presence of Brandon Wood, who is probably the better glove at third anyway. Regardless of who goes a corresponding roster move will have to be made.

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