Martinez dealt to Cleveland

Jenifer Langosch/MLB.com

The Pirates have traded right-hander Joe Martinez to the Indians for cash considerations, the team announced on Tuesday.

Martinez had been designated for assignment on Dec. 22, so that a spot on the 40-man roster could be opened for free agent signee Kevin Correia. Following that roster move, Pittsburgh had 10 days to trade, release or outright Martinez to the Minors.

Martinez’s stint with the Pirates was a brief one. He was acquired along with outfielder John Bowker from the Giants for Javier Lopez at the July Trade Deadline. He spent a month pitching in Triple-A before joining the Pirates in September.

With Pittsburgh, Martinez made five appearances out of the bullpen. He was expected to provide either starting pitching depth or compete for a spot as a middle reliever.

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