Detroit Tigers: Four Things to Know vs Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh’s Bullpen Will Be Somewhat Depleted

Because of the Tigers offensive outburst on Tuesday—not to mention the fact that Pittsburgh starter Juan Nicasio needed 94 pitches to get through three innings—the Pirates had to use both Kyle Lobstein and Corey Lubke.

The two long relievers were worked in Detroit. Lobstein tossed three innings, while Lubke threw two frames. It is unlikely we’ll see either in the game tonight. Thursday is always a possibility, but the two are probably sitting this one out.

That leaves closer Mark Melancon, former Tiger Neftali Feliz and fellow relievers Tony Watson, Arquimedes Caminero and A.J. Schugel.

Feliz, Watson and Caminero have combined for 14 appearances so far, while Schugel was only just called up. The rookie posted an unsightly 10.18 ERA in 38 minor league innings last year. Schugel wasn’t much better in the bigs either, with a 5.00 ERA in a brief, five game stint with the Diamondbacks.

To make room for Schugel, the Bucs designated Mike Morse for assignment, so the bench could be a tad shorthanded. This might end up benefiting Detroit.

If the Tigers can drive up Vogelsong’s pitch count in the same way that they did with Nicasio, they’ll be in excellent shape.