On Tuesday, September 24, the Pittsburgh Pirates and Milwaukee Brewers kicked off a three-game series, but the big news came before the first pitch. The Pirates designated former Brewers first baseman Rowdy Tellez for assignment, a move that notably saved the team some money. Tellez was just four plate appearances shy of earning a $200,000 incentive bonus.
Tellez, who spent 2.5 seasons with the Brewers, signed with the Pirates during the last offseason. His contract was a one-year deal worth $3.2 million, which included multiple incentives. The bonuses were structured to reward him with $200,000 at each of four plate appearance milestones: 425, 475, 525, and 575.
As of September 24, Tellez had reached 421 plate appearances, just four away from hitting the 425 mark and securing his bonus. However, instead of allowing him to cross that threshold, the Pirates made a business decision to part ways with him.
This decision could have broader implications for the Pirates organization. Players take note of these kinds of moves, and the perception that the team cuts players before they can reach incentive milestones may impact their reputation in the free agent market.
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