2013 MLB All-Star Game: Mark Melancon replaces Jeff Locke on NL team

Jun 29, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher Mark Melancon (35) pitches against the Milwaukee Brewers during the eighth inning at PNC Park. The Pittsburgh Pirates won 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Following the announcement that Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Jeff Locke would not start today and miss the All-Star Game in New York on Tuesday, a replacement would need to be found but San Francisco Giants – and National League – manager Bruce Bochy did not have to look far.

Bochy decided on Pirates reliever Mark Melancon who going into Sunday’s game had an 0.81 ERA and a 2-1 record in addition to two saves. Melancon also has 25 holds in 26 chances to maintain a lead, usually in the eighth inning.

Melancon was acquired in the trade that sent Joel Hanrahan to the Boston Red Sox in the offseason. Although the trade received mixed reviews from fans, Melancon was immediately placed as a set up man and has succeeded.

Locke had lower back stiffness and after soft tossing on Friday, it was determined that he would not be able to compete. Locke will be in New York to watch the game, meaning the Pirates will have five players represent them at Citi Field, tying the 1972 team for the second-most participants in franchise history.

The 1960 edition of the Pirates had six representatives on the NL squad.