Pirates Roster Moves: Newcomers Gonzalez, Eisert Activated, 2 Prospects Optioned

PITTSBURGH — The Pirates have activated infielder Jacob Gonzalez and left-handed pitcher Brandon Eisert before the second game of a doubleheader against the Brewers on Saturday. To make room on the active roster, right-handed pitcher Thomas Harrington and infielder Jack Brannigan were optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis.

The Pirates acquired both Gonzalez and Eisert from the White Sox on Friday night for the 34th pick in the 2026 draft and left-handed pitching prospect Jaden Woods.

Gonzalez hit .244/.323/.360 with four doubles, two home runs and 17 RBIs in 30 games with the White Sox during his first stint in the big leagues this year. In 53 games with Triple-A Charlotte prior to his promotion on May 30, the 24-year-old slashed .320/.422/.675 with 12 doubles, one triple, 19 home runs, 63 RBIs and eight stolen bases.

Eisert made 25 appearances/four starts with the White Sox prior to the trade and went 2-1 with a 5.93 ERA. The 28-year-old logged 27.1 innings, allowed 26 hits, issued eight walks and struck out 32 batters.

Harrington joined the Pirates on Friday but did not appear in a game prior to getting sent back down. The 24-year-old, who made three appearances with Pittsburgh last season, is 1-5 with a 6.52 ERA in 20 appearances/six starts with Indianapolis this year.

Brannigan made his MLB debut in the Pirates’ win over the Braves on Tuesday night. He entered the game as a pinch-hitter and struck out in his lone plate appearance before remaining in the game to play third base.

Additionally, the Pirates added right-handed pitcher Noah Murdock as the team’s 27th player for the second game of the doubleheader. Murdock, who was added to the 40-man roster on Monday, is 2-2 with a 3.74 ERA in 26 appearances/one start across three minor-league affiliates this season.

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