Pirates release veterans Tellez, Taylor to make way for prospects

PITTSBURGH (AP) — The Pittsburgh Pirates released first baseman Rowdy Tellez and outfielder Michael A. Taylor on Tuesday and promoted infielder Liover Peguero and outfielder Josh Palacios from Triple-A Indianapolis.

The moves came with just six games left in the season and Pittsburgh eliminated from playoff contention.

Tellez recovered from a slow start to hit .243 with 13 home runs and 56 RBIs in 131 games. The Pirates had signed Tellez to a one-year deal in the offseason.

Taylor, like Tellez signed to a one-year deal, hit just .193 with five home runs, 21 RBIs and 12 stolen bases in 113 games. His playing time diminished in recent weeks after the Pirates moved shortstop Oneil Cruz to center field.

The 23-year-old Peguero led all Pirates minor leaguers in hits (127), RBIs (79) and doubles (29) and tied for second in extra-base hits (46).

Palacios hit .230 with a pair of homers and seven RBIs in 20 games with Pittsburgh earlier this season.

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