The Pittsburgh Pirates signed infielder David Freese to a one-year contract. The 32-year-old Freese hit .257 (109-for-424) with 27 doubles, 14 home runs, 56 RBI and 53 runs scored in 121 games in 2015 as a member of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. They designated left-handed pitcher Jesse Biddle for assignment in order to make room for Freese on the 40 man roster.
The Pirates announced left-handed pitcher Francisco Liriano will be the Opening Day starter on April 3rd against the St. Louis Cardinals.
The Pirates beat the Tampa Bay Rays Friday 4-3. They will play the Detroit Tigers at 1:05 pm Saturday afternoon.