Steven Brault is Transitioning to a Relief Role

One of the Pirates’ top pitching prospects is going to begin to transition to being a reliever

After spending the first five seasons of his professional career as a starting pitcher, Steven Brault is moving to the bullpen. This move comes despite him being arguably the best starting pitcher in the International League this season.

Steven Brault owns a 1.94 ERA, 3.29 FIP, and  he is among the league leaders with 109 strikeouts in 120 1/3 innings pitched for the Triple-A Indianapolis Indians this season. He has started 20 of the 21 games he has appeared in this season, but he will not be making another start.

After two brief stints in the Pirate bullpen this summer, it was announced on Monday that Brault will be moving to the Indianapolis bullpen effective immediately.

As you can see above, the Pirates already have a plan in place for Steven Brault as he begins his transition. The bullpen has always been the best home for Steven Brault long term as he is just a two-pitch pitcher. However, out of the bullpen, his stuff will play up giving him a plus fastball and a good slider.

In his two stints with the Pirates this season Brault appeared in three games pitching 8 innings. He allowed 4 runs on 8 hits, 3 walks, and 3 strikeouts in those 8 innings of work. The Pittsburgh Pirates desperately need another left-handed pitcher in their bullpen and it looks like the plan is for Steven Brault to become that pitcher.

Next: Brandon Cumpton Promoted to AAA

Pirate fans can expect to see Steven Brault back with the big club when rosters expand in September, possibly sooner depending on the health of George Kontos who may require a stint on the disabled list. Regardless of when he returns to the Majors, it appears Steven Brault is now part of the Pirates’ future plans for their bullpen.