Last August, the Pittsburgh Pirates acquired right-handed reliever George Kontos from the San Francisco Giants. Kontos became the team’s 8th inning man upon arriving in Pittsburgh and he remains in this role.
Last week, I wrote that the Pirates need to stop using Kontos in high-leverage situations. Despite his struggles this season, Clint Hurdle has continued to use him in these situations. And now, there is no longer a need for Kontos in the Pirate bullpen.
In 17 2/3 innings pitched this season Kontos has been dreadful. He has allowed 20 hits, three home runs, he has walked three, hit two, and struck out just seven.