Pirates sign Mike Zagurski to minor league contract with spring training invitation

The Pittsburgh Pirates and relief pitcher Mike Zagurski have agreed to terms on a minor league contract, that includes an invitation to spring training in 2013.

Zagurski was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 12th round of the First-Year Player Draft in 2005. Zagurski remained with the Philadelphia organization until Sept. 2011, when he was designated for assignment, and later traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks.

In 45 appearances with the Diamondbacks in '12, Zagurski pitched a total of 37 and 1/3 innings, allowing 37 hits while walking 19 and striking out 34. Zagurski, a left handed pitcher, allowed lefties to hit .298/.364/.439 off of him this season, in just 57 at bats.

Zagurski has spent the majority of his professional career in the minor leagues. Despite being drafted in 2005, Zagurski has only pitched a total of 69 innings in the majors, with his career-high in innings (37 and 1/3) coming in 2012.

Zagurski, who turns 30 in January, will compete for a spot in Pittsburgh's bullpen in spring training.