Done Deal: Pirates officially land much-needed utility from St. Louis to strengthen offense

The Pittsburgh Pirates have claimed 28-year-old infielder/outfielder off waivers from the St. Louis Cardinals, per the team’s X account. To make room on the 40-man roster, the Pirates moved infielder Enmanuel Valdez from the 10-day to the 60-day injured list. Valdez, who appeared in 31 games and saw significant time at first base, has been out with a left shoulder injury.

He, a Texas A&M product, was drafted by the Minnesota Twins in the 11th round of the 2018 MLB Draft. He remained in their organization until being traded to the Cardinals in February for cash considerations. He made his MLB debut with Minnesota in 2023, collecting three hits in 10 at-bats over nine games.

In 72 games for Triple-A St. Paul last season, Helman hit .271/.350/.487 with 14 homers, 47 RBIs, and an .838 OPS. He walked 29 times and struck out 76. His last two seasons have been limited by injuries, including a shoulder dislocation in 2023 and multiple hamstring issues this year.

After a strong showing in Triple-A last season, Helman has struggled in 2024 with Triple-A Memphis, slashing just .185/.260/.292 through 73 at-bats. However, he hit his first home run of the season on Sunday and is expected to report to Triple-A Indianapolis, where he’ll try to play his way into a struggling Pirates lineup.

That offense has now gone 19 consecutive games scoring four runs or fewer, setting a franchise record, and most recently dropped another one-run game to the Mets despite excellent starts from Paul Skenes and Mitch Keller.

Entering Wednesday, Pittsburgh ranks third in MLB with 20 quality starts, trailing only Philadelphia (21) and Kansas City (23). But their poor offense and shaky bullpen have dragged them down to a 14-29 record.

New manager Donnie Kelly could soon get help. Catcher/first baseman Endy Rodriguez begins a rehab stint in Indianapolis today. Though his early-season numbers weren’t impressive, he may offer an upgrade over Henry Davis, who continues to struggle.

Meanwhile, second baseman Nick Gonzales (ankle fracture) and first baseman Spencer Horwitz (wrist surgery) are also in Indianapolis and expected to begin rehab assignments soon.