The Pittsburgh Pirates fell to a fourth consecutive defeat on Tuesday, as a 10‑run explosion in the seventh inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers turned a close contest into a rout.
The team’s relievers, collectively posting a 4.33 earned‑run average that places them 19th overall and 12th in the National League, have struggled to shut down opposing offenses when the game is on the line.
Rookie right‑hander Wilber Dotel failed to record a single out, surrendering six earned runs to six batters, while Brandan Bidios walked three men before Dennis Santana finally got the last out of the frame.
Looking to the Minors
With trade options limited, the Pirates are turning their attention to the Triple‑A rotation in Indianapolis, where four relievers have turned heads this season.
Isaac Mattson, who owns a 2.35 ERA in eight appearances since being optioned on May 20, could bring a fresh arm to the mix. Antwone Kelly, the May Triple‑A pitcher of the month for the Indians, brings a 3.60 ERA and two wins in five starts. Justin Meis boasts a 3.00 ERA and a 1.03 WHIP across 18 relief outings, while Beau Burrows has posted a 2.55 ERA and three saves in 20 appearances.
The quartet represents a blend of experience and upside, offering the club a potential shortcut to stabilize a bullpen that has already allowed 10 runs in a single inning. Managerial staff are expected to evaluate the candidates during the upcoming series against the Dodgers and the next stretch of games.