HOUSTON -- The Pirates took on another pitching project today, acquiring reliever Sean Gallagher from San Diego for cash.

He is scheduled to fly from San Diego to Houston Thursday morning and join the team for the afternoon game. That would require removing another pitcher, the most likely candidate being reliever Justin Thomas.

Gallagher, 24, was designated for assignment last week after having a 5.40 ERA in 15 appearances. Since 2007, he has a 5.57 ERA in 60 appearances with three teams, including 23 starts.

Of his history of control problems, underscored by 5.9 walks per nine innings pitched, Gallagher said: "You know, I think it's more about getting in the work and getting back to basics, pitching consistent strikes. I've been a little erratic this year, but I definitely think I can get that solved."

Looking for more from the Post-Gazette? Join PG+, our members-only web site. You'll get exclusive sports content, opinion, financial information, discounts from retailers and restaurants, and more. Our introduction to PG+ gives you all the details.