Bootcheck elects for free agency

Padres v AngelsThe Pittsburgh Pirates and reliever Chris Bootcheck have parted ways.

Bootcheck didn’t exactly fit into the Pirates future despite being a 2009 Triple-A All-Star. When the Pirates put him on waivers a few days ago it signaled the end to his time with the organization. So now the soon to be 31-year old former first round pick of the Anaheim Angels will go job hunting again this off season.

When it’s the third week in October and you’re not really all that interested in whats going on in two less then amusing League Championship Series these are the kind of things that can keep you amused for a few minutes.

Signed to a minor league deal with the Pirates last December he enjoyed what can only be considered his best minor league season when he appeared in 40 games as the closer for the Pirates Triple-A club. He picked up 20 saves and had a 3.38 ERA in 42.2 innings of work while posting a 1.102 WHIP.

As far as things go in the majors though his ERA of 11.05 in 14 2/3 innings of relief this season and an ERA of 10.13 in 16 innings last season figure to guarantee him a minor league contract at best.

John Boarman
John Boarmanhttp://www.tireball.com
Founder and Owner of Tireball Sports.

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