Casey DeSmith the New No. 2 Goaltender + Latest on Antti Niemi

The Pittsburgh Penguins have recalled goaltender Casey DeSmith from Wilkes Barre/Scranton. DeSmith, 26, is joining an NHL roster for the first time in his career. He is 3-0-0 with an 0.98 GAA and .965 save percentage on the season. Last season DeSmith went 26-7-3 with a 1.92 GAA and .929 save percentage. Entrenched the new No. 2 goaltender for the short-term, DeSmith was the expected callup with management intending to stick with the initial plan of Tristan Jarry staying in minors, at least for most of the season. This week Pittsburgh plays four games over six nights with the next back-to-back on the weekend with Pittsburgh @ Minnesota on Saturday and @ Winnipeg on Sunday. The team placed Antti Niemi

Pirates DFA Jonathan Sanchez

Jonathan Sanchez (0-3, 11.85 ERA) time with the Pirates has come to an end. The struggling lefty was officially designated for assignment this afternoon and the team has recalled Bryan Morris. Sanchez MLB career is very likely over as he posted an 8.07 ERA in 15 starts last season and he has been a mess for the Pirates after winning a job out of spring training.