Prior to their series finale with the Chicago Cubs on Sunday afternoon the Pittsburgh Pirates activated left-handed pitcher Cory Luebke off the disabled list. The corresponding move made by the Pirates was to option right-handed reliever A.J. Schugel to AAA Indianapolis.
The Pittsburgh Pirates bullpen has really struggled this season, largely due to poor middle relief. Arquimedes Caminero, Ryan Vogelsong, Kyle Lobstein, Jared Hughes, and, before going on the disabled list, Cory Luebke have all struggled mightily this season.
While the back end of the Pirate bullpen has been strong, the struggling middle relief has really hurt the team.