PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Hard luck Pirates reliever Nick Burdi signed a minor league contract with the Padres according to the San Diego Union-Tribune, even though Burdi likely won’t pitch this year.
Burdi had his second career Tommy John surgery in October, so a typical timeline wouldn’t have Burdi ready until Spring Training 2022.
The 27-year-old righty was with the Bucs for three seasons, although he pitched only 12.1 innings due to various injuries, he struck out 23 with a 9.49 ERA. Known for his upper-90s fastball, Burdi averaged 12.2 strikeouts per 9 innings in his minor league career.
Burdi designated for assignment following the surgery, then outrighted to Triple-A, but the Hinsdale, Illinois native elected free agency.