The Pittsburgh Pirates promoted five players following the final game of Indianapolis’ season today. Those players are Robinzon Diaz, Brian Bixler, Jeff Karstens, Donald Veal, and Eric Hacker.
Diaz and Bixler had both been up at times this year, and both will return as utility players. An interesting note on Diaz: he has been playing as a utility player since going back down to AAA on July 10th. Diaz played games at first base, third base, and right field. He is out of options after the season, which means he needs to be in the majors next season. His value to the team increases if he can play first, third, and right field, as it gives the team a third catcher and a utility player all in one.
Jeff Karstens and Donald Veal were both on the 15-day disabled list, and both have been activated. The Pirates are home free with Veal, as they will be able to stash him in the majors the rest of the season, thus fulfilling their Rule 5 requirements.
Eric Hacker, who was acquired back in May in a trade for Romulo Sanchez, will also get the call. Hacker had a decent season with Indianapolis, making 21 starts with a 4.02 ERA and a 82:46 K/BB ratio in 116.1 innings pitched. Hacker is more of a depth option for the rotation, but could have a future in the bullpen as a long reliever.
The 25-man roster and 40-man roster/payroll pages have been updated.
May 2, 2012 at 3:55 pm
Just read it….It’s nice to have 2 of the 5. Hopefully, once Heredia comes along we’ll have 3. And then pray THEY ALL MAKE IT!
May 2, 2012 at 6:30 pm
Who are the other three– I’m guessing Shelby Miller and Dylan Bundy, perhaps Cole’s UCLA teammate Bauer?
May 2, 2012 at 6:52 pm
Bundy, Archie Bradley and I think Tijuan Walker.
May 2, 2012 at 6:52 pm
delete the ‘i think’…lol