Pittsburgh Pirates: Previewing Three-Game Interleague Clash vs Tigers

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - APRIL 18: Colin Moran #19 of the Pittsburgh Pirates is congratulated by Bryan Reynolds #10 following a three run home run during the third inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field on April 18, 2021 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - APRIL 18: Colin Moran #19 of the Pittsburgh Pirates is congratulated by Bryan Reynolds #10 following a three run home run during the third inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field on April 18, 2021 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /
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Apr 3, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates right fielder Gregory Polanco (25) catches a fly ball hit by Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant (not pictured) in the fifth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 3, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates right fielder Gregory Polanco (25) catches a fly ball hit by Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant (not pictured) in the fifth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports /

What to do with the designated hitter?

One major decision that Shelton will face this series is what will the Pittsburgh Pirates do with the designated hitter? This is the first time in the 2021 season that the Pirates will have the DH at their disposal. What will they do with it?

It seems like a safe bet that Polanco will get at least one start at DH. To be honest, the best lineup the Pittsburgh Pirates can construct in this series likely sees Polanco, or Phillip Evans at DH with the other in right field and Erik González at third base.

It would not be a surprise to see Moran get a start at DH, either. He has started 15 of the team’s first 16 games at first base, giving him a start at DH would be a good way to get him a day down in the field while keeping his red hot bat in the lineup. The same goes for Bryan Reynolds who has started all 16 games this season. If either of these two players get a start at DH, look for Evans to take their place in the field.

Next. Bullpen Shines in Series Victory vs Milwaukee. dark

Speaking of Evans, after a red hot start to the season he has hit a bit of a rough patch. He is just 1 for his last 24, so a start at DH to allow him to just focus on hitting could do him well. In fact, a total and complete day down would likely serve Evans well.