The Pirates are making a change in the infield ahead of their series with the Reds. Infielder Rodolfo Castro has been recalled from Class AAA Indianapolis, and utilityman Cole Tucker has been optioned to Indianapolis.
Optioning Tucker is hardly a surprise based on merit. In 18 games between shortstop, second base and right field, Tucker slashed just .175/.175/.222 with no homers or walks, just two RBIs and a 39.7% strikeout rate.
Tucker had recently abandoned switch-hitting, opting to instead just swing left-handed, as the latest attempt to jumpstart his offensive production. Derek Shelton said he wanted Tucker to get consistent at-bats and work on that lefty swing more consistently.
"In fairness to him, we need to give him an opportunity to work on it probably in an environment that’s a little bit different than here," Shelton said.
Taking his place is Castro, who has slashed .250./.397/.402 with two home runs, 12 RBIs and a perfect 5-for-5 mark on stolen bases.
He'll get reps at second and shortstop, primarily. He will start at shortstop Thursday night.
Additionally, the Pirates have claimed right-handed pitcher Tyler Beede off waivers from the Giants. He was originally drafted by the Giants 14th overall in 2014, and in 135 1/3 career MLB innings, he has pitched to a 5.39 ERA.
He averages 95.5 mph on his fastball, which he throws often, falling back on a changeup and low-spin curve.
To make room on the 40 man roster, Beau Sulser has been designated for assignment. The right-hander allowed four runs over 9 2/3 innings in his first major-league cameo.
The Pirates will have to open up a major-league roster spot for Beede when he reports to the team because he is out of minor-league options.
Additionally, the Pirates optioned right-hander Max Kranick to Class AAA and activated righty Duane Underwood Jr. off the 10-day injured list (hamstring).
