Pirates Make Roster Move After Loss to Tigers

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Pirates Make Roster Move After Loss to Tigers

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Aug 18, 2026 2:56 PM ET

The Pittsburgh Pirates made a bullpen change after Monday’s 8-5 loss to the Detroit Tigers, optioning right-handed reliever Isaac Mattson to Triple-A Indianapolis and recalling right-hander Antwone Kelly.

The move comes as Pittsburgh manages a heavily taxed pitching staff during the middle of August. Mattson worked two innings in the loss, allowing two hits, two walks and one earned run while throwing 41 pitches.

Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported the move on X as the Pirates prepare for the rest of their interleague series against Detroit. Kelly now returns to provide another fresh arm for the bullpen.

Antwone Kelly is here. Isaac Mattson optioned to Triple-A Indianapolis.
— Jason Mackey (@JMackey_PGH) August 18, 2026

Mattson leaves the major league roster carrying a 4.91 ERA and 1.58 WHIP across 36.2 innings this season. His recent workload appears to have made the roster adjustment particularly important as Pittsburgh tries to preserve its available relief options.

Kelly, meanwhile, brings a younger arm back to Pittsburgh. The 22-year-old right-hander has posted a 6.14 ERA, four strikeouts and a 1.63 WHIP over 7.1 major league innings this season and can provide multi-inning or middle-relief coverage.