Veteran reliever Kyle Farnsworth has caught on with a contender. (USATSI)
Veteran reliever Kyle Farnsworth has caught on with a contender. (USATSI)

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On Friday, the Pirates added some bullpen depth to the system by signing veteran reliever Kyle Farnsworth to a minor-league contract.

Farnsworth, 37, pitched to a 5.76 ERA in 39 appearances for the Rays this season, and for his career he owns an ERA+ of 101 across 951 1/3 innings. He was originally a 47th-round draft choice by the Cubs in 1994.

The Rays designated Farnsworth for assignment on Aug. 9, and the Pirates have now assigned him to Triple-A Indianapolis.

While the Pittsburgh bullpen has been outstanding this season, they may need additional depth down the stretch, what with the uncertain status of injured closer Jason Grilli.