Pirates Call Up Nick Solak Ahead of Key Game in Philadelphia

PITTSBURGH, Pa. — The Pittsburgh Pirates made a significant roster move on Friday, promoting infielder/outfielder Nick Solak from Triple-A Indianapolis ahead of their game against the Philadelphia Phillies.

Solak’s selection comes as the Pirates aim to boost their struggling offense. To make room for him on the active roster, the team optioned outfielder Ji Hwan Bae to Indianapolis and designated infielder/outfielder Michael Helman for assignment to clear a spot on the 40-man roster.

The 30-year-old Solak has been on fire in the minors, leading Triple-A with a batting average of .393, while ranking fourth in on-base percentage at .452 and slugging at .625. In his 12 games this month for Indianapolis, he posted an impressive .390 batting average with a 1.089 OPS.

Solak, who previously played for the Texas Rangers, batted .252 over four MLB seasons from 2019 to 2022. He has experience playing at second base as well as left field, center field, and third base. This season, he dominated at the plate with 20 RBIs, six home runs, and four stolen bases in 127 plate appearances.

In tonight’s game, Solak will start at first base, filling the gap left by injured players Spencer Horwitz and Enmanuel Valdez. He aims to translate his minor league success to the major leagues, where the Pirates have struggled offensively.

The team is hopeful that Solak’s offensive skills will provide much-needed support, as they have faced challenges this season. With his minor league performance, which included a team-best 13-game hitting streak, Solak has demonstrated he can hit effectively.

“We are excited to bring Nick back to the big leagues,” said Pirates manager Derek Shelton. “He’s earned this call-up with his performance, and we’re looking forward to seeing what he can do against major league pitching.”

The Pirates will face the Phillies tonight, during which Solak will seek to make a strong impression in his first major league appearance since 2022.