The Pirates sent right-hander Nick Kingham from Class AAA Indianapolis to Class AA Altoona on Thursday to keep him in line for a future spot start.
Kingham started for Indianapolis onWednesday. His next turn in the rotation is Monday, May 14, but Indianapolis is off that day. He can start for Altoona on Monday and be on regular rest for May 19, the next time the Pirates need a fifth starter because of three scheduled off days in an eight-day span.
Joe Musgrove is working his way back from a shoulder strain but likely won’t be ready by May 19.