Pirates claim Niko Goodrum off waivers, send him to Triple-A

Field Level Media|published: 06/10/2024, 7:32pm EDT

May 10, 2024; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels third base Niko Goodrum (28) reaches first base on an error during the second inning against the Kansas City Royals at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports

The Pittsburgh Pirates claimed infielder/outfielder Niko Goodrum off waivers from the Los Angeles Angels on Monday.

The Pirates optioned the 32-year-old Goodrum to Triple-A Indianapolis.

Pittsburgh designated right-hander Ben Heller for assignment to open a 40-man roster spot for Goodrum, who is batting .103 (3-for-29) in 13 big league games this season.

Goodrum was hitless in 13 at-bats in four games for the Angels. He also played in nine games earlier this season for the Tampa Bay Rays and went 3-for-16 with a run scored.

The Angels claimed Goodrum off waivers from the Rays on May 9.

Goodrum has a .224 career average with 42 homers and 152 RBIs in 415 games over parts of seven major league seasons with the Minnesota Twins (2017), Detroit Tigers (2018-21), Houston Astros (2022), Rays and Angels.

Heller, 32, gave up 12 runs (11 earned) and nine hits in two innings over two relief appearances with Pittsburgh this season.

--Field Level Media