Pittsburgh Pirates Have Plenty of Roster Moves Coming
By Matt Shetler
After taking a second to celebrate a lengthy 19-inning victory over the St. Louis Cardinals, the Pittsburgh Pirates must make a quick turn around and get ready for a three-game set in San Diego.
That also means there needs to be some roster shuffling as well.
In addition to likely calling up Justin Wilson to make Monday night’s start, there are some other issues to address so the Bucs have a full complement of players at manager Clint Hurdle’s disposal.
The starting pitcher is one move, as is adding Chad Qualls back to the roster, as the veteran reliever is eligible to rejoin the club after being put on the bereavement list.
Starling Marte went on the 15-day DL prior to yesterday’s game and was replaced on the roster with Jose Tabata.
In addition, Jordy Mercer will be away from the team on paternity leave, so a roster move must be made with him.
Then there is Travis Snider, who not only was fighting through a sore hamstring but also appeared to injure his groin during yesterday’s marathon.
If Snider can’t go for a while, a trip to the DL is almost necessary, just so Hurdle has a bench to use.
One good note is that Neil Walker was able to pinch hit yesterday, so he could be back in the lineup sooner rather than later.
However between adding a starter, maybe a fresh arm or two in the pen, a replacement for Mercer and possibly Snider, the Pirates roster could see a quick makeover before they begin their three-game series in San Diego.
That’s tough to do in the middle of fighting for a playoff spot, but given the circumstances it may be necessary.