Pittsburgh Pirates Prospects: Pitchers Struggle in First Start at New Levels

Kyle Nicolas made his first start at Triple-A and Anthony Solometo his first start at Double-A. Both Pittbsurgh Pirates prospects struggled in their debuts at their new levels.

Earlier this week the Pittsburgh Pirates moved a pair of pitching prospects up a level. On Saturday, they each made their debtus at their new levels. Unfortunately for Kyle Nicolas, things did not go well in a 6-3 loss for the Indianapolis Indians. With the loss the Indians are now 29-37 on the season.

In his Triple-A debut, Nicolas allowed 5 runs on eight hits, two walks, a home run, and six strikeouts in 4 innings pitched. While he had pitched better lately, overall, Nicolas struggled at Double-A before his promotion to Indy. So, seeing Nicolas struggle in his first start at the new level should not be a total surprise.

As for the Indy offense, Nick Gonzales was 0-for-2 with a walk, a run scored, and a RBI. Miguel Andújar was 2-for-4 with his 16th double of the season, a run scored, and a RBI. Canaan Smith-Njigba was 1-for-4, Jared Triolo was 0-for-3 with a walk, and Alika Williams was 1-for-3.

Henry Davis also continued to prove he should be in the majors. Starting in right field, Davis was 1-for-3 with a double and a walk. In 232 plate appearances between Triple-A and Dobule-A, Davis is hitting for a .284/.433/.541 slash line this season. It's time.