:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/10288441/20130314_ter_sv7_137.0.jpg)
The Pirates have unconditionally released Brad Hawpe. This is no surprise. There was really no chance of him making the team, given how clearly washed-up he was and the Pirates' lack of bench spots for outfielders, and my guess is that he was mostly in spring training as a courtesy. In any case, those of you worried about the Pirates opening the season with Hawpe on their roster can step back from the ledge now.