"The Pirates ran out of patience with Ross Ohlendorf, releasing the right-hander early Thursday morning.

Ohlendorf, a fourth-round pick in 2004, came to the Pirates in 2008 as part of a six-player trade with the New York Yankees. In 2009, he went 11-10 with a 3.92 ERA in 29 starts.

However, Ohlendorf went 2-14 with a 5.14 ERA and a 1.53 WHIP over the past two seasons while being hampered by injuries to his lower back and shoulder.

"I knew chances were I wasn't coming back, but I was really hoping they wouldn't release me. I really like Pittsburgh and was looking forward to being with that group," Ohlendorf said. "This past year was really tough, but I still feel like I have the ability to be a major league starter.

"If I had stayed healthy, I wouldn't be in this position.""