The Pittsburgh Pirates’ bullpen, already dealing with injuries, faced another setback on Monday night when right-handed reliever Dennis Santana left their game against Cincinnati due to a right arm contusion.
The Pirates are currently without two-time All-Star closer David Bednar, along with right-handers Hunter Stratton and Ryan Borucki, who are all on the 15-day injured list. Santana’s status is now day-to-day, further complicating their bullpen situation.
With a bullpen start scheduled for Wednesday and considering Santana’s injury, Carmen Mlodzinski and Luis Ortiz may be unavailable for Tuesday’s game against the Reds.
Manager Derek Shelton highlighted the need for middle relief help after starter Bailey Falter’s early exit in Monday’s 11-5 loss, forcing Justin Bruihl, Santana, Daulton Jefferies, and Josh Fleming to cover the remaining innings.
Santana, acquired from the Yankees in mid-June, was hit by a line drive in the fifth inning but initially continued pitching before stiffness forced him out. His absence necessitates deeper bullpen usage at a critical time.
The Pirates may need to make roster adjustments, possibly recalling Ryder Ryan, who has shuttled between Triple-A and the majors this season. Braxton Ashcraft, also on the 40-man roster, is another option after impressing in Triple-A.
Shelton acknowledged adjustments in bullpen roles due to injuries, relying on pitchers like Aroldis Chapman, Colin Holderman, and Kyle Nicolas to step into crucial innings.
The team faces challenges managing bullpen depth amidst ongoing injuries, requiring adaptability and performance from their remaining pitchers.
