Pirates promote Pedro Florimon, designate Jayson Aquino

The Pirates have selected the contract of infielder Pedro Florimon, optioned Wilfredo Boscan to Indianapolis, designated minor league pitcher Jayson Aquino for assignment.

Florimon (pictured) is a bad hitter, but with Jordy Mercer's injury, the Pirates didn't have anyone besides Jung-Ho Kang on their roster who's any more than an emergency shortstop. Florimon will, presumably, serve as the Pirates' utility infielder for the time being, and despite his offense, he's not a terrible one, since he's a plus defensive player. Adding him to the active roster also returns the Bucs to their usual complement of 13 position players.

Boscan has had three stints with the Pirates this season and still hasn't made his big-league debut, but at least he still has his roster spot. The same can't be said for Aquino, who the Bucs acquired from the Blue Jays in May. Aquino is a young lefty who has good control and the ability to start, so he might be claimed. Given his relatively low strikeout rate with Bradenton, though, one can understand why the Pirates are taking the risk.