The Pittsburgh Pirates have optioned left handed reliever Tony Watson to AAA and have recalled right handed pitcher Brad Lincoln, the team announced today. The move is a bit of a surprise, as it leaves the Pirates with one left hander. Watson was also pitching well, with a 2.73 ERA in 26.1 innings, along with a 23:12 K/BB ratio.
Lincoln last pitched in Indianapolis on July 31st. He allowed six runs in three innings. However, he has a 4.19 ERA in 111.2 innings in AAA, with a 94:21 K/BB ratio. It’s unknown whether he will pitch out of the bullpen, or make a spot start tomorrow. Kevin Correia is the probable starter on Sunday, but has struggled at home, and could be moved back for the road trip, where he’s been much more effective. Lincoln made a spot start in July, allowing two runs on four hits in six innings, with three walks and four strikeouts.
