The Pittsburgh Pirates have recalled right-handed pitchers Yefry Ramirez and Geoff Hartlieb from Indianapolis. To make room on the active roster, Montana DuRapau and Alex McRae were optioned to Indianapolis.
After trading Jordan Lyles yesterday, the Pirates needed to go to a spot starter. Alex McRae made that start and lasted just 1.1 innings, though he threw a lot of pitches in a short time. Montana DuRapau followed and he threw 71 pitches over three innings. The Pirates ended up using three other pitchers to finish out the game, so they needed some fresh arms today.
Hartlieb spent six weeks with the Pirates earlier this season and had an 8.10 ERA in 20 innings over 14 appearances. Since being sent down, he has a 1.76 ERA, an 0.85 WHIP and 22 strikeouts in 15.1 innings.
Ramirez was acquired in late May from the Baltimore Orioles. He spent two days with the Pirates in June, but did not get into a game. With Indianapolis, he has a 5.81 ERA in 31 innings, with 38 strikeouts and a 1.77 WHIP.
Ramirez last pitched four days ago and he has thrown over 80 pitches twice in the past month, so he would be able to give the Pirates a lot of pitches if needed tonight. Hartlieb, who pitched three days ago, has topped out at 37 pitches since being sent down, so he would be more of a 1-2 inning arm.
