Courtesy of StepOutside.org

Liriano back to Pirates on minor-league deal

The last time the Pirates signed Francisco Liriano, it was to the largest free agent contract in franchise history. This time, it is to a minor league contract.

On Monday, the Pirates signed the left-hander and invited him to spring training on a non-roster basis. Liriano is likely to compete for a spot in the bullpen.

Liriano, 35, previously pitched for the Pirates from 2013-16. He received a three-year, $39-million contract during the 2014-15 offseason then was traded to the Blue Jays in 2016 because management felt National League Central hitters had become too familiar with Liriano’s repertoire.

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