Fansided

Each MLB team’s expected call-ups for roster expansion

By Kyle Franzoni

May 11, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Archie Bradley against the Washington Nationals at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
May 11, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Archie Bradley against the Washington Nationals at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 19, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher John Holdzkom (43) pitches against the Milwaukee Brewersduring the eighth inning at PNC Park. The Pirates won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 19, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher John Holdzkom (43) pitches against the Milwaukee Brewersduring the eighth inning at PNC Park. The Pirates won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

Pittsburgh Pirates

Just because the Pittsburgh Pirates have the second best record in the National League doesn’t mean that they are willing to look a gift like expanded rosters in the mouth. The Pirates have their fair share of injuries heading into September and as such, they’ll take any reinforcements they can get to help rest their walking tired, even if it is just for a month.

That said, the Pirates will get some help from the wounded as well. Starter A.J. Burnett threw a 71-pitch simulated game and reported no setbacks from a strained flexor in his right elbow. Adding him back into the rotation not only solidifies the starting corps, but it also deepens the bullpen by allowing the team to slide J.A. Happ into long-relief.

Outside of Burnett, the Pirates could get further relief help by bringing back left-hander Bobby LaFromboise. A third lefty (if you count Happ after Burnett returns) will complete the bullpen make-over.

Additionally, the Pirates will use the expanded rosters as any other contender would. They’ll add a back-up catcher to help rest the pair of Francisco Cervelli and Chris Stewart. That will likely mean favorite Tony Sanchez will rejoin the team, although Elias Diaz is more deserving of the look. Infielder Alen Hanson and outfielders Jaff Decker and and Willy Garcia could also receive a cup of coffee, although playing time will be at a premium for this trio as the Pirates try to steal the division crown from the Cardinals.

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