Pittsburgh Pirates: Rob Zastryzny Needs to Go
By Marty Leap
Who should replace Zastryzny?
If Zastryzny were to be desiganted for assignment the question becomes who should replace him on the Pirate roster? Well, there is a young fast rising bullpen arm pitching well at Triple-A Indianapolis who deserves a chance in the majors. That arm is righty Carmen Mlodzinski.
The 31st overall pick in the 2020 draft has transitioned to a full-time bullpen role this season. Mlodzinski has pitched 25.2 innings in 19 appearances out of Indy's bullpen, posting a 3.16 ERA and a 3.45 FIP.
Mlodzinski has walked 9.6% of batters faced while striking out 27.2% of opposing batters. He's limited opponents to a .233 batting average and has allowed just two home runs (0.70 HR/9). Mlodzinski has induced a 40.0% ground ball rate and has posted a 1.36 WHIP.
The 24-year-old righty has also been surging lately. Since the start of May, he has pitched 14.2 innings allowing just 12 hits and one home run. He's posted a 2.45 ERA, 2.61 FIP, 8.2% walk rate, and a 34.4% strikeout rate.
Mlodzinski has earned a promotion to the majors. Zastryzny has no business still being on the major league roster. It's time for the Pirates to make a sweep of the two.
Next. 5 college arms. 5 College Arms to Watch in the Draft. dark