Pirates claim SS Josh Rodriguez with the No. 1 pick in the Rule-5 draft

The Pittsburgh Pirates intensified their efforts to upgrade the shortstop position on Wednesday, aggressively pursuing Jason Bartlett and J.J. Hardy but after striking out on both players, the Pirates were forced to look to the Rule-5 draft.

The Pirates today selected Cleveland Indians shortstop Josh Rodriguez with the No. 1 pick in the Rule-5 draft.

Rodriguez, 25, with turn 26 later this month and is a versatile player who can also play third base, second base and in the outfield.

However, Rodriguez doesn't address the Pirates pressing need at shortstop by any means as Rodriguez is seen as nothing more than a utility guy by scouts.

The former...