ATLANTA -- Over the next month, the Pirates will balance their present and future at shortstop -- and see how the two might intersect.
Rookie Kevin Newman, the Pirates' No. 6 prospect according to MLB Pipeline, made his second start at shortstop against the Braves on Friday night at SunTrust Park. Veteran Jordy Mercer started the last two games after coming off the disabled list, ending a stretch in which Adeiny Hechavarria started 11 of 12 games at shortstop.
When the Pirates designated Sean Rodriguez for assignment on Wednesday, they did so in part to provide Newman with more playing time.