PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Former Yankees 18-game winner Domingo German was signed by the Pirates near the end of Spring Training to compete for a starting rotation spot or at least provide depth. The Pirates not only found strength with their pitching staff, but German was never consistent. Signed to a $1.5 million contract, the right-hander was released on Wednesday.
The 6’2” veteran made 10 starts with AAA Indianapolis this season with a 4-4 record, 5.36 ERA, 50.1 innings, 28 walks, 48 strikeouts, 1.57 WHIP and a .255 batting average against. He was better in his couple of starts in July going a total of 9.2 innings, nine hits, four runs, four walks and 10 strikeouts.
German had entered a treatment facility due to alcohol abuse with the Yankees last year. He reportedly became belligerent with his New York teammates.
The six-year MLB veteran was on a minor-league contract, so his release does not affect the 40-man roster. He had the ability to opt out of his Pirates contract and there is always the outside chance he could sign back.