Pirates Announce Francisco Liriano, Melky Cabrera Will Make Opening Day Roster

The Pirates have told LHP Francisco Liriano and OF Melky Cabrera they will make the opening day roster.

Liriano and Cabrera were signed this winter to minor league deals with spring training invites. Both will need to be added to the 40 man roster. One spot can be opened when Edgar Santana is placed on the 60 day injury list.

Liriano- a key contributor for the 2013-2015 playoff teams before being dealt during the 2016 trade deadline- had an up and down spring, striking out eight but walking nine in 9.2 innings of work. He will be used as a reliever with the Bucs.

Cabrera recorded 13 hits and three doubles in 42 at-bats this spring. The 14 year vet gives the Pirates a potential platoon partner for Lonnie Chisenhall in right field.