Locke will be available out of the bullpen on Saturday and Sunday, Hurdle said. It's unclear if the assignment will last longer, but the Pirates could go until Aug. 6 without a fifth starter if they keep four starters working on regular rest around their upcoming off-days.
While the Pirates have not made it official, all signs continue to point toward top prospect Tyler Glasnow making his home debut on Saturday. He was on turn to pitch for Triple-A Indianapolis, but right-hander Chad Kuhl is now scheduled to make that start.
Glasnow was charged with four runs on three hits and two walks while striking out five over 5 1/3 innings in his Major League debut against the Cardinals on July 7.