Prospects step up as Pirates chase stability
The Pittsburgh Pirates announced Tuesday that right‑handers Antwone Kelly and Thomas Harrington will be summoned from Triple‑A Indianapolis, a move designed to plug holes in a bullpen that has posted a 4.53 ERA and sits 23rd in the majors.
Kelly, the organization’s seventh‑best prospect according to MLB Pipeline, made his big‑league debut on June 12 against Miami, surrendering two runs over 2.1 innings in relief. In 12 starts and 17 appearances for Indianapolis this season, he is 4‑5 with a 4.85 ERA, showing a mix of promise and inconsistency.
Harrington, ranked No. 12 among Pittsburgh’s top 30 prospects, previously appeared in three games for the Pirates last year, going 0‑1 with a 15.58 ERA and a save. This season he is 1‑5 with a 6.52 ERA across six starts and 20 relief outings for Indianapolis, a stretch that has left the club hopeful that a change of scenery will unlock his potential.
The Pirates’ relief corps has been a source of concern all season, ranking near the bottom of the National League in several key metrics. By adding fresh arms, the front office hopes to lower the ERA and give the starters more breathing room as the team pushes for a playoff spot.
General manager Ben Cherington indicated that the corresponding roster moves will be announced later this week, but for now the focus is on integrating Kelly and Harrington into the mix and seeing how they respond in high‑leverage situations.