Need Some Relief? These 3 Pitchers Have Stepped Up for the Pirates' Bullpen

Josh Fleming, another offseason acquisition, has filled in nicely as the go-to southpaw in the bullpen. From a three-inning save in the season’s second game to his string of four straight scoreless appearances entering the game on April 24, Fleming has simply done everything asked of him. In fact, he is slated to start against the Brewers on April 24, his first MLB start since May 28, 2023.

Much of Fleming’s success stems from the downward movement on his primary pitches, which generate a 67.7 percent ground ball rate. Fleming has always been a ground-ball pitcher, but he has improved his effectiveness in inducing weak contact this season. Out of 165 pitches (31 batted balls), zero have resulted in “barrels,” according to Statcast.