Author: mattbandi

Andrew McCutchen is a late scratch from today's lineup. The Pirates' centerfielder reinjured his right shoulder on Wednesday night while making a leaping catch against the outfield fence, and the injury flared up this afternoon during batting practice. Jose Tabata took his spot in the lineup. McCutchen is listed as day to day.

Pirates: Tabata-CF Young-RF Walker-2B Jones-1B Alvarez-3B Church-LF Crosby-SS Jaramillo-C Maholm-P Rockies: Fowler-CF Barmes-2B Gonzalez-LF Tulowitzki-SS Mora-1B Spilborghs-RF Olivo-C Stewart-3B Jimenez-P

Yesterday, I took a look at Paul Maholm's potential value on the trade block in preparation for the upcoming July 31st deadline. Garrett Jones is another player that may be available for the right price. Some reports have indicated that the Angels are interested in Jones, although the Pirates claim there has never been an inquiry. So what should we expect in return for Jones?

Ross Ohlendorf left tonight's game after being struck in the side of the head by a Troy Tulowitzki line drive. Ohlendorf never lost consciousness, briefly dropping to a knee but returning to his feet within seconds. He appeared alert, and walked off the field under his own power. Ohlendorf was taken to a local hospital for precautionary measures.

Pirates: McCutchen-CF Tabata-LF Walker-2B Jones-1B Alvarez-3B Milledge-RF Cedeno-SS Kratz-C Ohlendorf-P Rockies: Smith-LF Herrera-2B Gonzalez-CF Tulowitzki-SS Hawpe-1B Spilborghs-RF Stewart-3B Iannetta-C Cook-P

Double-A prospect Gorkys Hernandez has been placed on the disabled list with a broken finger. Hernandez was hit by a pitch while attempting to bunt.

The July 31st trade deadline is just a few days away, yet things are mostly quiet on the Pittsburgh front. After wheeling and dealing at the past two deadlines, general manager Neal Huntington has few veterans left to unload in 2010. That being said, there are still potential moves to consider and assets to examine. Let's start by evaluating the trade value of Paul Maholm.

The Pirates have recalled relievers Steven Jackson and Wil Ledezma from Triple-A Indianapolis.

Probable Pitchers Tuesday, July 27th - 8:40 PM: LHP Zach Duke vs LHP Jorge de la Rosa Wednesday, July 28th - 8:40 PM: RHP Ross Ohlendorf vs. RHP Aaron Cook Thursday, July 29th - 3:10 PM: LHP Paul Maholm vs. RHP Ubaldo Jimenez

We have seen many shocked reactions from players, media and fans since the Pirates designated Brendan Donnelly for assignment following yesterday’s loss to the Padres. Apparently, he was very well liked in the clubhouse, particularly among his peers in the bullpen. I understand that it is tough to lose a teammate, especially a strong leader such as Donnelly. But is anyone actually surprised by this move?

Neil Walker is having an encouraging 2010 season. He got off to a hot start in Triple-A, hitting .321/.392/.560 in 189 plate appearances. On May 25th, he was promoted to Pittsburgh and soon became the everyday second baseman. The 24-year-old has continued to hit at the major league level, posting a .307/.345/.453 line in his first 194 plate appearances. But just below the surface, there are some underlying concerns.

The Pirates demoted rookie pitcher Brad Lincoln to Triple-A Indianapolis after his poor start this afternoon. They also designated veteran reliever Brendan Donnelly for assignment. The team is expected to announce corresponding roster moves before Tuesday's game in Colorado.