Top prospect Glasnow rejoins Bucs in wave of moves
PITTSBURGH -- With Triple-A Indianapolis' season over, the Pirates called up their second wave of reinforcements on Tuesday.
The Bucs promoted top prospectTyler Glasnow, right-handers Drew Hutchison and Trevor Williams and infielder Pedro Florimón from Triple-A. To make room for Williams and Florimon on the 40-man roster, Pittsburgh designated right-hander Curtis Partch and left-hander Kelvin Marte for assignment.
Glasnow, Hutchison and Williams were available out of the bullpen on Tuesday night at PNC Park, but at least one of them could start down the stretch. Pittsburgh is currently without right-hander Gerrit Cole, slated to return Monday in Philadelphia, and rookies Jameson Taillon, Chad Kuhl and Steven Brault may need to skip a turn through the rotation or get extra rest over the season's final month.
"There's some moving pieces," manager Clint Hurdle said. "It gives us an opportunity to have guys that have pitched [multiple innings], that have worked off that rubber in a starting rotation. Initially, it's to help us with volume out of the bullpen."
After recovering from a shoulder injury sustained during his second Major League start, Glasnow allowed one run in 8 2/3 innings over two starts for Indianapolis, striking out 11 and walking seven.
"I feel better now. Feel good. Just ready to come out and compete here," Glasnow said. "I want to make the most out of it while I'm here and finish the season strong."
Hutchison came to the Bucs in the trade that sent Opening Day starter Francisco Liriano and top 10 prospects Reese McGuire and Harold Ramirez to the Blue Jays. Hutchison went 1-1 with a 4.50 ERA in seven appearances (six starts) for Indianapolis. His best outing was his last one, when he allowed four hits and struck out five over 6 1/3 scoreless innings.
"Obviously, it's been a transition. Starting to get comfortable. I'm excited to be here. I'm excited for the opportunity and ready to go," Hutchison said. "I think I've thrown the ball well this year. I'm excited for a fresh start. I'm glad to be here, and I'm looking forward to this opportunity."
Williams put together a strong season in Triple-A, posting a 2.53 ERA in 110 1/3 innings over 20 games (19 starts). He has been dominant since late June, recording a 1.50 ERA and holding opponents to a .205 average in 13 outings since June 28.
After watching five other Triple-A starters get called up, Williams received the news directly from Indianapolis manager Dean Treanor following the team's season finale on Monday. His first appearance with the Pirates will be his Major League debut.
"Every time it happens, you hope it's you. But then you're happy for your teammate to go up," Williams said. "Every guy that's gone up so far has been having success. I'm just extremely grateful, and hopefully I can help out."
Florimon is back with the Pirates after being designated for assignment at the end of Spring Training, giving Hurdle another pinch-running option and a late-game glove around the infield. Florimon hit .255 in 107 games for Indianapolis while playing shortstop, second and third base and both corner-outfield positions.