File Photo taken in 2016 by Frank Sparks

The Pirates have signed free-agent left-hander Francisco Liriano, MLB Network insider Ken Rosenthal reported Monday, with The Athletic adding that it’s a Minor League deal worth $1.8 million plus incentives if he makes the roster. The Bucs have not commented on the reports. as of yet.

Liriano signed with the Pirates as a free agent prior to the 2013 season, remaining with the club until he was traded to the Blue Jays on Aug. 1, 2016. Liriano made 107 starts in a Bucs uniform, going 41-36 with a 3.67 ERA. Liriano has struggled since leaving Pittsburgh, spending time with the Blue Jays, Astros and Tigers. The 35-year-old spent 2018 with the Tigers, with whom he pitched in 27 games (26 starts) and went 5-12 with a 4.58 ERA. Among all pitchers with at least 100 innings, Liriano posted the fourth-highest walk rate (12.5 percent) and the fourth-lowest strikeout-to-walk ratio (1.51).