Pirates release RHP Cody Ponce, who will sign to play in Japan

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Pirates release RHP Cody Ponce, who will sign to play in Japan

Kevin Gorman | Tuesday, November 30, 2021 8:12 a.m.

Christopher Horner | Tribune-Review

Pirates pitcher Cody Ponce against the Cubs during the fifth inning on Tuesday, May 25, 2021, at PNC Park.

The Pittsburgh Pirates released pitcher Cody Ponce on Monday, with the intent for the right-hander to play in Japan.

The 27-year-old Ponce, acquired from the Milwaukee Brewers in a trade for pitcher Jordan Lyles in July 2019, was 1-7 with a 5.86 ERA in 20 games for the Pirates over the past two seasons, including five spot starts.

Ponce was 0-6 with a 7.04 ERA and 1.75 WHIP in 38⅓ innings over 15 games, including two starts, last season while bouncing back and forth between the majors and Triple-A Indianapolis.

Nikkan Sports reported that Ponce has signed with the Haikkodo Nippon-Ham Fighters of Nippon Professional Baseball.

By releasing Ponce, the Pirates reduced their 40-man roster to 39 players.

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