The Pittsburgh Pirates have called up left-handed pitcher Kyle Lobstein, and have optioned Wilfredo Boscan to Indianapolis. The move makes sense, as Boscan started last night, and won’t be available for a few days, while Lobstein gives them an extra reliever, following a night where their bullpen received a lot of work.
Lobstein has been one of the better relievers who has been through the revolving middle relief door for the Pirates this year. That statement does come with the disclaimer that he has a 4.13 ERA and a 4.88 xFIP, and sadly that is good enough to be one of the better relievers. He has stepped up a few times in extended innings, so he could have some value to the Pirates as a long reliever.
Boscan made his first MLB start last night, and looked good the first time through the order. He struggled big time after that, and looks like he’s best used as a long-reliever at most in the future.
Alan Saunders will have more from PNC Park later today.
