Hatch is back in the U.S. after going 0-3 with a 7.36 ERA in five starts for Hiroshima in Japan last season. He originally signed to pitch in Korea this year, but he failed his physical with Doosan. The 30-year-old had a 4.96 ERA in 69 big-league innings for the Blue Jays and Pirates from 2020-23.

Hatch will aim to continue rebuild his value overseas in Korea after spending last year in Japan with the Hiroshima Carp. The 30-year-old righty last appeared in the big leagues during the 2023 season when he made 18 relief appearances between the Blue Jays and Pirates.

Hatch’s departure to Japan frees up a spot on Pittsburgh’s 40-man roster. The 29-year-old righty split last season between the Pirates and Blue Jays, finishing with a serviceable 4.08 ERA, 1.57 WHIP and 26/12 K/BB ratio across 28 2/3 innings (18 appearances, two starts). He’ll aim to build up his long-term value overseas after struggling to carve out a permanent role in the big leagues over the last few years.

Hatch heads to the minors after making 12 appearances (two starts) for the Pirates since being claimed off waivers last month from the Blue Jays.