Right-hander Tim wood finished second among all Pittsburgh farmhands with 23 saves –a career-high– while posting a 2.84 ERA in 40 games with Triple-A Indianapolis. Wood was also named to the league’s post-season All-Star team but was unable to pitch due to being claimed by another team.
Wood was designated for assignment on August 18 to make room for right-hander Ross Ohlendorf on the 40-man roster and was claimed off waivers by the Texas Rangers the same day. Wood finished the 2011 season making four relief appearances with Triple-A Round Rock where he allowed five runs on nine hits with three walks and two strikeouts.
After becoming a free agent, rather than accepting an outright assignment to Triple-A Round Rock, Wood and the Pirates agreed to terms on a minor league deal on Tuesday which includes a non-roster invite to spring training.
“I like the organization a lot,“ Wood said on his decision to come back. “They said they would give me an opportunity and that’s all I can ask for. I like the staff and plus they know me.“
Wood made 13 appearances with the Pirates from June 10 to July 1. He allowed five runs on eight this over 8.0 innings of relief with eight walks and two strikeouts.
Wood, who turns 29 this month, is currently pitching for the Toros del Este in the Dominican Republic. He is also joined by fellow bucco infielders Chase d’Arnaud, Matt Hague and pitchers Chris Leroux and Aaron Thompson.
“Winter ball is an experience in its self,“ Wood said. “I would highly recommend it to any American. It’s the same game as in the states but a completely different atmosphere . I enjoy it tremendously!”
On Sunday, Wood tossed a perfect inning with two strikeouts for the Toros. Overall in six appearances this season, Wood has allowed four runs (three earned) on nine hits over 6.1 innings with one walk and five strikeouts.
Photo credit: Yahoo! Sports
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