Wright still in bullpen mix

By MIKE HENRY
mhenry@bradenton.com

BRADENTON -- Pirates non-roster invitee Jaret Wright remains in the running for a spot in the team's bullpen after agreeing to delay a contract provision that enables him to ask for his release.
"In his initial contract, Jaret had the ability to request his release by today if we had not added him to the (40-man) roster," said general manager Neal Huntington.
"After discussions with Jaret through his agent, he has extended that ability to request his release through Thursday."
The 32-year-old right-hander, who pitched only 18 innings in the Orioles organization in 2007 because of shoulder problems, has made eight one-inning appearances this spring. He is 0-0 with a 3.38 ERA, a strikeout and four walks.
Wright is expected to pitch Wednesday at McKechnie Field against the Tigers. He appears to be one of eight pitchers vying for four remaining Opening Day roster spots.
"I never try to think about who I'm ahead of or who I'm behind," said Wright, who has a 68-60 career major-league record and pitched for the Indians in the 1997 World Series. "I just try to stay focused to throw well and help the team."