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Dennis Santana elects free agency after being designated by Pirates

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 30, 2026, 12:54 AM

Last updated Jul 30, 2026

Dennis Santana elects free agency after being designated by Pirates

Summary

Dennis Santana has elected free agency after the Pittsburgh Pirates designated him for assignment. Santana, who joined the Pirates as a waiver claim in the 2024 season, performed solidly as a reliever, posting a 2.44 ERA in 39 appearances that year. His role expanded in 2025, where he notched 16 saves and had a 2.18 ERA in 70 games. However, his performance declined in 2026, as he recorded a 6.05 ERA over 44 appearances before being DFA'd. The Pirates had counted on him to be their primary closer this season.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Santana cleared waivers and is now a free agent.
•He had a solid 2025 season with 16 saves.
•His performance declined significantly in 2026.
•The Pirates designated him for assignment last week.

Latest Updates

12:54 AMYahoo Sports — Former Pirates Reliever Dennis Santana Elects Free Agency

What they're saying

"
Dennis Santana cleared waivers and elected free agency after he was designated for assignment by the Pirates on Thursday. Santana […] The post Former Pirates Reliever Dennis Santana Elects Free Agency appeared first on Pittsburgh Baseball Now.
— Yahoo Sports

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