Clint Hurdle has made it clear that Kyle Lobstein and Juan Nicasio are rotation depth. As such, it is quite possible that one of them will in the AAA Indianapolis starting rotation when the season opens. Both players are also contenders for the open bullpen spot.
Lobstein started yesterday against his former team, the Detroit Tigers. He pitched two scoreless innings, walking two and striking out while giving up one hit. The Pirates won the game 4-2.
Lobstein, in his post game comments with Matt Gajtka at DKPittsburghSports.com indicated that he hasn’t worked with Pirates Pitching coach Ray Searage yet.