Braves Announce Signing of Ex-Pirates Catcher Francisco Cervelli and Make Corresponding Move
By Parker White
It was reported a couple days ago that the Atlanta Braves had a deal in the works with veteran catcher Francisco Cervelli after he was released by the Pittsburgh Pirates.
On Saturday, it was made official that the Braves had come to an agreement on a major-league deal with Cervelli.
The #Braves announce another move today, signing C Francisco Cervelli to a major league contract. Alex Jackson has been optioned to @GoStripers. To make room on the 40-man, Grant Dayton was transferred to 60-day IL. Cervelli will be active tonight.
— Kelsey Wingert (@KelsWingert) August 24, 2019
The Braves have optioned catcher Alex Jackson to Triple-A Gwinnett to make room for Cervelli on the active roster. Left-handed reliever Grant Dayton has been transferred to the 60-day IL to open a spot on the 40-man roster.
Cervelli will be active for Saturday's game against the New York Mets and he's expected to fill in for the injured Brian McCann.
Braves Sign Francisco Cervelli https://t.co/zRbV6S1IRI pic.twitter.com/Qz9nF17Qu9
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) August 24, 2019
The 33-year-old backstop has been on the shelf most of the year due to a concussion, which many believed would keep him from getting back behind the plate.
In 34 games with the Pirates, Cervelli slashed .193/.279/.248 with one home run and five RBI.