Pirates acquire Chris Bostick from Nationals

The Pirates have announced that they've acquired infielder Chris Bostick from the Nationals for catcher Taylor Gushue and cash considerations. Bostick has been placed on the Bucs' 40-man roster, with Josh Harrison heading to the 60-day DL to make room for him. Bostick will not report to the big-league team.

The 23-year-old Bostick hit well for Double-A Harrisburg this year but struggled after being promoted to Triple-A Syracuse, and the Nationals designated him for assignment last week. He plays second, third and outfield. He's hit passably as he's climbed through the minors (with a lifetime minor league line of .263/.329/.412), but as his recent DFA suggests, he isn't a top prospect. He came up through the A's organization, then was traded twice, going from the A's to the Rangers in the Craig Gentry / Michael Choice and then to the Nationals in a deal involving Ross Dewiler.

Gushue was the Pirates' fourth-round pick in 2014, but he hasn't had much success in the minors, batting .226/.282/.357 for Bradenton this year.

It will be interesting to see if the Pirates' acquisition of Bostick means much, particularly for infielders on the roster like Alen Hanson, but my guess is that it doesn't. The Bucs could attempt to sneak Bostick through waivers themselves, as he would be solid minor league depth.