Delwyn Young Joins the 25-Man Roster

The PBC Blog reports that the Pirates have optioned Luis Cruz to AAA to make room for newly acquired Delwyn Young on the active roster. Young has primarily played in the outfield the past 3 or 4 years (including time in the majors as well as the minors), at least partly due to his shaky defense at second base, which was his original position. Because of this, I thought, initially, that this would mean the end of Craig Monroe. I mean, that would make more sense in terms of the overall balance of the big league roster, since Ramon Vazquez would be the only legitimate reserve infielder. But one thing I didn't consider, which I should have, is that the Bucs' current management team puts at least as much focus on the strength of the 40 man roster, and the entire organization in general, as they do on the 25 man active roster. By designating Dave Davidson for assignment, thus clearing a spot for Young on the 40 man, the Pirates risked losing a player who has marginal upside and who may even clear waivers and rejoin the AAA roster. This way, the Pirates can add Young without sacrificing a current player (This is aside from the 2 players to be named later, or cash, owed to the Dodgers). Now, the Pirates can just option Cruz, clearing a spot on the 25 for Young, and, for the time being at least, improve the strength and depth of their top 2 levels. The Big League club now has a little more offense, though a bit less defense and flexibility. However, with Brian Bixler and now Cruz available in AAA, should an injury occur to Jack Wilson or Freddy Sanchez, the Pirates have at least 2 major league ready substitutes.