The Pittsburgh Pirates made two roster moves today, reinstating relief pitcher Juan Cruz, and placing Charlie Morton on the 15-day disabled list.
Cruz was on the restricted list, dealing with some personal business in the Dominican Republic. He was expected to return for the weekend series against the Milwaukee Brewers.
Morton has struggled recently, and was placed on the 15-day disabled list with right elbow inflammation. The move is retroactive to May 30th. Morton will be in rest mode until the inflammation resolves, then will start a throwing program and bullpen work. The next steps will be determined after Morton starts his throwing program.
With Morton out, and Cruz back, the Pirates have eight relievers and four starters. They could go with Brad Lincoln as a starting option. Jeff Karstens is making a rehab start tonight for Indianapolis, expected to throw 80 pitches or five innings. One of those two could replace Morton, who was in line to make his next start on Tuesday. That would be four days rest for Karstens, although the off-day could allow the Pirates to move Burnett up and pitch on five days rest on Tuesday, with Karstens going Wednesday.
