Pirates Trade Lind to Royals, Release Four Other Veterans
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PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Pirates, continuing to reduce their payroll and open roster spots for prospects, traded second baseman Jose Lind to the Kansas City Royals on Thursday and waived four other veterans.
Right-handed pitchers Vicente Palacios and Roger Mason, and outfielders Gary Varsho and Cecil Espy were waived as the Pirates unloaded one-fifth of their roster in one day.
Pittsburgh acquired pitchers Dennis Moeller and Joel Johnston for Lind.
The Pirates are expected to substantially reduce their $36-million payroll of last season. Outfielders Barry Bonds ($5.15 million) and Gary Redus ($825,000) became free agents after the World Series, along with pitcher Doug Drabek ($4.5 million).
Lind, a Gold Glove second baseman, made $2 million last season but committed an error that led to the Atlanta Braves’ victory over the Pirates in the seventh game of the NL championship series.
Espy made $320,000 last season, Varsho earned $367,500, Palacios $170,000 and Mason $225,000.
Teams must submit their 40-man winter rosters today.
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