Reliever Hisanori Takahashi has been claimed off waivers by the Pittsburgh Pirates, the team said Friday.
Takahashi went 0-3 for the Los Angeles Angels this year, recording a 4.93 ERA with 41 strikeouts over 42 relief appearances. He was optioned to Triple-A Salt Lake on Aug. 19 shortly before being placed on waivers.
The 37-year-old Takahashi began his pro career as a starting pitcher with the Yomiuri Giants. He declared free agency after the 2009 season and signed in 2010 with the New York Mets, where he earned a 10-6 record with a 3.61 ERA in 12 starts and 41 appearances from the bullpen.