Endy Rodriguez Could Play In Minor League Games Soon
p/c: Katie Stratman - USA Today Sports
On his Sunday radio show on 93.7 The Fan, Pirates general manager Ben Cherington provided an update on Endy Rodriguez - and it’s a promising one.
As the 24-year-old Rodriguez continues to recover from a UCL injury that he sustained during winter ball in November, Cherington says he’s been able to do things, which could allow to begin playing in minor league games soon.
According to Cherington, Rodriguez has been taking batting practice from the left side, as well as working out at first base. He’s yet to hit from the right side, which Cherington indicated would be a box for him to check.
The plan from Cherington, in regards to Rodriguez taking part in minor league action, would be to have him mostly in a DH role, with the potential of also playing first base. Although Rodriguez is currently catching bullpen sessions, Cherington says catching will be the last part of the process, because of the volume it takes by throwing that constantly.
Rodriguez was one of many rookies who joined the Pirates in 2023. He posted a .220/.284/.328 slash, in 204 plate appearances. Behind the dish, however, Rodriguez was solid, with a +3 Defensive Runs Saved, along with a 30% caught stealing; 11% above league average. He was responsible for catching Johan Oviedo’s first career complete game shutout on August 28th in Kansas City.