Pittsburgh Pirates: Three Things to Watch in May

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Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Roansy Contreras (59) throws during the seventh inning of their game against the Milwaukee Brewers Tuesday, April 19, 2022 at American Family Field in Milwaukee, Wis.Brewers20 11 /

Will there be reinforcements coming from the minor leagues?

Could the Pittsburgh Pirates dip into the minor leagues for reinforcements during the month of May? At this point of the season Oneil Cruz has been at Triple-A long enough for the Pirates to secure a 7th year of team control. Yes, Cruz is struggling at Indianapolis but some times a promotion to the majors can help get a player out of a slump. Plus, as we have already discussed, there is playing time to be had in the Pirate infield.

Due to spending time in the Pirate bullpen early in the season top pitching prospect Roansy Contreras likely needs to remain in the minors until about May 15th in order for the organization to accrue that 7th year of control. After the next week or so passes, Contreras could return to the Pirates and provide a big boost to the starting rotation.

Right-handed reliever Yerry De Los Santos could see a MLB promotion in May as well. De Los Santos has allowed 2 runs while striking out 15 in 10 innings pitched out of the Indianapolis bullpen. Sooner or later De Los Santos will be pitching out of the Pirate bullpen.

Left-handed reliever Cam Alldred could also be a name to watch. In 16.2 innings pitched Alldred has walked 3 batters, struck out 15 and posted a 1.62 ERA. Like De Los Santos, Alldred is likely pitching his way to an opportunity in Pittsburgh.

Underrated OF Prospect Off to a Strong Start. dark. Next

Outfielder Cal Mitchell is off to a red hot start at Indianapolis and could see a promotion soon as well. Through his first 77 plate appearances this season Mitchell is hitting for a .308/.403/.538 slash line, 11.7% walk rate and a 149 wRC+.

First baseman Mason Martin could be on the horizon as well. Especially if Yoshi Tsutsugo continues to struggle. Martin leads the International League with 16 extra base hits, having hit 4 home runs, 8 doubles, and 4 triples. While Martin has struck out at a 32.3% rate, that is an improvement over past seasons.

While it is not a guarantee the Pittsburgh Pirates could look to the minor leagues for help this month, it is certainly something that could be in the cards.

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