Former Red Sox reliever Chase Shugart throwing a pitch for the Pirates in 2025. (Charles LeClaire / Imagn)
The Pittsburgh Pirates have designated former Boston Red Sox reliever Chase Shugart for assignment, according to Jason Mackey of The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. The move clears a spot on the club’s 40-man roster for newly signed first baseman Ryan O’Hearn.
Boston traded Shugart to Pittsburgh last offseason in exchange for right-handed minor league pitcher Matt McShane.
Shugart made his Major League debut with the Red Sox during the 2024 season, allowing four runs on eight hits and three walks while striking out eight over 8 1/3 innings of relief. He spent the bulk of the year with Triple-A Worcester, where he posted a 4.46 ERA.
The 29-year-old appeared in 35 games for the Pirates last season, going 4–3 with a 3.40 ERA. He earned his first career big-league save against the Angels on April 22. Shugart was placed on the injured list on July 8 with left knee inflammation.
Shugart also logged time with Triple-A Indianapolis, where he went 1–0 with a 1.74 ERA and recorded one save.
If Shugart clears waivers, he would be outrighted to Triple-A Indianapolis and serve as organizational depth. He still has one minor-league option remaining and remains under team control, making him a viable bullpen option for Pittsburgh should injuries arise later this season.