The Pittsburgh Pirates have purchased the contract of right-handed pitcher Wilfredo Boscan from Indianapolis, and have optioned Steve Lombardozzi to Indianapolis. To make room on the 40-man roster, the Pirates have transferred Brandon Cumpton to the 60-day DL.
Boscan had a 2.87 ERA in 31.1 innings with Indianapolis this year, along with a 20:11 K/BB ratio. In his last start, which came on May 10th, he threw seven shutout innings, while striking out four and allowing one walk. Earlier this week, Ryan Palencer wrote about the unexpected success that Boscan is having this season. He was originally fighting for a rotation spot in Altoona, but was able to move up to Indianapolis after a few rotation spots opened up with the injury to Brandon Cumpton and the need for Clayton Richard to spend time in extended Spring Training. He has made the most of that chance, and now finds himself with his first shot at the majors.
This move is likely a short-term deal to add bullpen depth. It’s likely that Boscan goes down after this weekend, likely for a position player to replace Lombardozzi. If he doesn’t go down then, he will likely go down next week when Charlie Morton returns.
