The moving parts in the Pirates’ rotation continue: They will need a spot starter for a series opener Friday against the Brewers in Milwaukee.
Jeff Locke will remain in the bullpen at least through the weekend. Jameson Taillon will pitch Saturday and Francisco Liriano will go Sunday.
Entering Tuesday night, Locke most recently pitched July 20, when he allowed five runs, five walks and seven hits in three innings to the Brewers. His 5.54 ERA is the worst in baseball among qualified starters.
Taillon, Liriano and Gerrit Cole are healthy and active members of the rotation, with Locke and Jon Niese in the bullpen.