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The Associated Press
PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Pirates hired Miguel Perez the club's bullpen coach on Friday.
Perez has spent parts of two decades in the Pirates' organization, including the last three as the manager of the team's Triple-A affiliate in Indianapolis.
The announcement allowed the team to give Perez the news he has thrilled dozens of prospects with in recent years: a callup to the majors.
The 41-year-old Perez, a former catcher who appeared in two games with Cincinnati before eventually moving into coaching, will replace Justin Meccage, who was not retained after the 2024 season.
Perez initially joined the Pirates as a player in 2008 and bounced around the minors with several clubs before becoming a coach. While serving as the manager in Indianapolis, he developed relationships with many of the players who make up club's core at the Major League level, including National League Rookie of the Year Paul Skenes and shortstop Oneil Cruz.
"Miggy is one of the most highly respected members of our player development system who has not only had a meaningful impact on our players but also other managers and coaches throughout the organization," Pirates manager Derek Shelton said in a statement. "His passion for the organization along with all the other intangibles that he will bring to our staff and players is something that we are excited about at the big league level."
Yanks get closer
NEW YORK -- The New York Yankees acquired All-Star closer Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers for left-hander Nestor Cortes and infield prospect Caleb Durbin.
The Yankees also will send $2 million to the Brewers as part of the trade. A 30-year-old right-hander, Williams and his signature "Airbender" changeup are eligible for free agency after the 2025 season.
He was diagnosed during spring training with two stress fractures in his back and didn't make his season debut until July 28. Williams was 14 for 15 in save chances with a 1.25 ERA, striking out 38 and walking 11 in 21ª innings.
Tucker out
CHICAGO -- The Chicago Cubs have acquired All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker in a trade with the Houston Astros, paying a big price for one of baseball's best hitters.
The Cubs sent third baseman Isaac Paredes, right-hander Hayden Wesneski and Cam Smith, one of their top infield prospects, to the Astros for Tucker, who is eligible for free agency after the 2025 season.
Tucker was limited to 78 games this year because of a fractured right shin, but he hit .289 with 23 homers and 49 RBIs for the AL West champions.