The Pirates have designated infielder Tood Frazier for assignment.
The move was made to make room for outfielder Ben Gamel who was claimed off waivers from the Cleveland Indians Sunday and activated Monday.
The 11-year veteran started the season off at the Pirates alternate site and in 13 games this season, was batting .086.
He went 3 for 35 with five walks, four RBI, one double and six strike outs.
"We needed a roster spot and that's what it came down to," said Pirates manager Derek Shelton. "It's unfortunate because Todd was great here. He was great in Spring Training with our group. Unfortunately when you acquire someone, you have to make difficult decisions with your roster."
The Pirates will now turn to Phillip Evans at first base. He's not a regular first baseman.
In fact, the Pirates don't currently have a legitimate first baseman on their roster.
The move to DFA Frazier also seems to be sudden, since he was schedule to talk to the media before Monday's game against Cincinnati.
The 35-year-old Frazier, drafted by the Rockies in the 37th round of the 2004 draft, has played 11 seasons in the majors (five with the Reds, three with the Mets, two with the White Sox, along with one with the Rangers, Yankees and Pirates).
A 2010 10th round pick by the Yankees, Gamel played the last two seasons with the Brewers. Playing in 174 games with Milwaukee, Gamel hit .245 with 26 doubles, 10 HR and 43 RBI. In three years with the Mariners, Gamel hit .270 in 262 games with 43 doubles, 13 homers and 83 RBI. His best year, 2017, the Florida native hit .275 with 27 doubles, 5 triples, 11 HR and 59 RBI.