Bleich was designated for assignment by Oakland on Monday.

EDGE Analysis

Bleich was sent to the minors in late July when the Athletics traded for Jeurys Familia. Another trade, this time for Mike Fiers, will send Bleich off the 40-man roster entirely. The 31-year-old reached the majors for the first time this season, allowing a pair of runs and getting just one out. His age and lack of experience make it seem unlikely that he'll get claimed off waivers.

The Athletics optioned Bleich to Triple-A Nashville on Sunday.

EDGE Analysis

His demotion clears a spot on the active roster for Jeurys Familia, whom the Athletics acquired Saturday in a deal with the Mets. Bleich made two appearances during his stint with the big club, retiring only one batter and giving up two runs on two hits.

Bleich was promoted to the big-league club Friday from Triple-A Nashville, Julian McWilliams of The Athletic Bay Area reports.

EDGE Analysis

Bleich has posted a 3.00 ERA and 1.21 WHIP with 38 strikeouts over 39 innings for the Sounds this season. He'll figure to be used out of the bullpen in mid-to-low leverage situations during his first stint in the major leagues.

Bleich signed a minor league contract with the Pirates on Tuesday that includes an invite to spring training, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports. With Bleich struggling in his first stint at Triple-A at the start of last season, posting a 6.68 ERA over 11 appearances (five starts), the Yankees decided to move him back down to Double-A Trenton. The lefty got back on track, with a 3.39 ERA and 1.24 WHIP over his final 15 starts, but the Pirates will likely want to see him have some success at Triple-A before entrusting him with major league innings.