Jacob Stallings Optioned To Triple-A

Despite not having a game on Monday, the Pittsburgh Pirates made a roster move

The Pittsburgh Pirates once again have two catchers on their active roster. This is because, according to Pirates Prospects, catcher Jacob Stallings was optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis on Monday. A corresponding move will be announced by the team on Tuesday.

Jacob Stallings was recalled by the Pirates last Thursday. This was due to Francisco Cervelli being placed on the 7-day concussion disabled list for a second time this season. This was the second time this season Stallings had been recalled to the Major Leagues.

During his time in the Major Leagues, this season Jacob Stallings had just 7 plate appearances. He was 2-for-7 with a double and strikeout during these 7 trips to the plate. With Elias Diaz currently in the Major Leagues, Stallings would figure to handle the everyday catching duties at Triple-A.

As for the corresponding roster move, there are a few ways the Pirates could go.

First off, there’s *gulp* Antonio Bastardo. The Pirates are running out of time to make a decision on the left-handed reliever as his rehab stint is about to run out of time, and, odds are, he will be promoted to the Major Leagues tomorrow.

For the Pirates this season Bastardo owned a 16.20 ERA, 12.59 FIP, and a 9.37 xFIP in 6 2/3 innings pitched. He had allowed 15 hits, 4 home runs, and walked 7 batters. His rehab stint at Triple-A has also been a mess. For the Indians, Bastardo owns a 6.46 FIP, 6.65 xFIP, and has allowed 11 hits while walking 8 batters in 11 1/3 innings pitched.

However, outside of Bastardo, there are other options. The Pirates may look to keep the bench at a full allotment of five players. If this is the case, my money would be on Gift Ngoepe being recalled.

Finally, they may also look to add an arm to a struggling bullpen. If this is the roster move, A.J. Schugel or Dovydas Neverauskas would most likely be the choice. Personally, I’d pick Schugel. Especially since he should have made the team out of Spring Training as is.

Next: A Look At The Pirate Offensive Leaders In June

With Jacob Stallings being optioned to Triple-A on Monday, another roster move will be coming from the Pittsburgh Pirates on Tuesday. There are multiple different directions that the Pirates could go with this roster move. But, hopefully, it does not involve Antonio Bastardo.