The Pirates claimed pitcher Virgil Vasquez off waivers from the San Diego Padres today. The 26 year old, went 12-12 with a 4.81 ERA, 115 strikeouts and 37 walks in 27 starts for the Detroit Tigers AAA affiliate (Toledo) last season. Vasquez pitched in five games with the Tigers in 2007, going 0-1 with a 8.64 ERA.
Arbitration dates set: Major League Baseball has announced the dates for arbitration hearings for outfielder Nate McLouth and Paul Maholm. McLouth’s case will be heard on February 17th and Maholm’s case will be heard on February 10th.