The Pittsburgh Pirates have claimed Los Angeles Angels reliever Hisanori Takahashi off the waivers, according to a tweet from Mike DiGiovanna.
The 37-year-old left hander was optioned to Triple-A Salt Lake after compiling a 0-3 record to go along with his 4.93 ERA and 41 strikeouts in 42 appearances this season. He has been scored upon in his last seven outings with the Angels.
Last season with Anaheim, Takahashi went 4-3 a 3.44 ERA, 52 strikeouts and two saves across 61 relief appearances (68 innings) after signing a two year, $8 million contract with the club. Takashi owns a career 3.80 ERA in his 232 major league innings.
While home runs have been the dilemma with Takashi this season (he's allowed six), the lefty specialist is actually striking out batters at a career best rate (4.1 K/BB).
For more Angels news as the playoff chase tightens up, head on over to Halos Heaven.