That’s an interesting point you make there about moving Garrett Jones to left field and playing Delwyn Young in right. I hadn’t thought of that. The lineup needs pop, and if Delwynn Young can do anything, it’s hit. Maybe they want to showcase him for a deal to an American League team, but I wouldn’t expect much in return. I’d almost forgotten about Young — it appears they’ve given up on any notion of him playing second base, nor should he at this point, with Neil Walker on board.

Odd men out appear to be Aki (thankfully) and possibly Ryan Church (if Tabata gets promoted) and/or Bobby Crosby (his versatility is a plus, but he’s just not very good — I mean, what are ya holding onto, really?). On the other hand, there’s precious little at Indy and Altoona right now — nobody, in fact, at the middle-infield positions, that would merit a promotion.

The trouble with Tabata is that he’s a singles hitter, so he doesn’t add power, which is what we need. The Pirates are a mix of spare parts and bit pieces. It’s sad, but I keep watching nonetheless.