The Pittsburgh Pirates strengthened their pitching staff on Saturday by signing veteran starting pitcher Andrew Heaney to a one-year deal. Heaney, 33, will receive $5.5 million guaranteed, with the potential for additional performance bonuses.
Over 11 seasons with five teams, Heaney has compiled a 51-62 record and a 4.45 ERA. Last year, he posted a 5-14 record with a 4.28 ERA in 32 games (31 starts) for the Texas Rangers. Heaney has been a journeyman in recent years, having pitched for four teams since 2021. When he’s at his best, Heaney serves as a solid back-of-the-rotation option. Notably, he displayed excellent control last season, walking just 41 batters in 160 innings.
Heaney’s ability to deceive hitters should not be overlooked. In April 2023, he even tied the American League record by striking out nine consecutive batters in a win over the Kansas City Royals.
Originally drafted by the Miami Marlins as the ninth overall pick in 2012, Heaney was traded to the Los Angeles Angels in a three-team deal ahead of the 2015 season. He remained with the Angels until 2021, when they traded him to the New York Yankees for two prospects.
Heaney’s time with the Yankees was a bust, posting a dismal 7.32 ERA and allowing 13 home runs in 35.2 innings. The Yankees quickly moved him to the bullpen after just five starts, and his $6.7 million salary didn’t last long in New York. Despite the tough stint with the Yankees, Heaney revived his career with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2022 and then joined the Rangers. His spring training debut date remains uncertain.
