The Pittsburgh Pirates made a roster move ahead of Wednesday’s afternoon series finale against the Miami Marlins with the team recalling right-handed pitcher Carmen Mlodzinski from Triple-A Indianapolis. Right-handed pitcher Kyle Nicolas was optioned to Triple-A in a corresponding move.
Mlodzinski, who opened the season in the Pirates’ starting rotation, will rejoin the team as a member of the bullpen, according to Noah Hiles of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
The 26-year-old struggled in his nine starts this season, and after producing a record of 1-4 with a 5.76 ERA, Mlodzinski was optioned to Triple-A on May 21. Despite continuing to work as a starter with Indianapolis, Mlodzinski will contribute in a bulk-relief role when he rejoins the team in Chicago.
The move back to the bullpen comes as little surprise given Mlodzinski’s previous experience in that role over the last two seasons. After making 36 relief appearances in 2024, it’s expected that he’ll join rookie Braxton Ashcraft to serve as a multi-inning relief option when necessary.
To make room for Mlodzinski’s return, Nicolas was optioned to Triple-A for the third time since Opening Day. In 10 appearances with Pittsburgh this season, the right-hander has struggled to get hitters out, evidenced by a 7.50 ERA and a 1.83 WHIP.
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The Pirates defeated the Miami Marlins 5-2 earlier this afternoon, and are set to begin a four-game series on the road against the National League Central-leading Chicago Cubs (41-27) on Thursday. Andrew Heaney (3-4) will oppose Jameson Tallion (6-3) in the series opener.
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