Pirates Make Unexpected Decision After Loss to Brewers

Spencer Horwitz Batting 2nd For the First Time This Season

Kelly's decision is an intriguing one at that. Horwitz has primarily led off for the Pirates this season. When he's not leading off, the 27-year-old finds himself at the clean-up spot.

Horwitz has started 27 games as the leadoff hitter this season. The only other spot in the lineup he's seen double digits in is at the four-hole, where he's started 21 games.

Shockingly, the lefty has batted at every spot in the lineup other than second. It's an unexpected move from Kelly, who's scrambling to try and take down Brandon Woodruff and the Brewers.

Moving to second in the lineup allowed Simon to take his place. Simon was just recalled from Triple-A Indianapolis after Oneil Cruz was placed on the seven-day concussion injured list.

Simon has eight home runs and 39 RBIs in 254 AAA at-bats. Pittsburgh claimed him off waivers on June 2 after he spent time with the Miami Marlins. All of his at-bats have come in Triple-A, a place he's become quite familiar with since being promoted there in 2023.

The speedster has 151 stolen bases in his minor league career. He has a .858 OPS this season to go along with his .303 average. Clearly, Kelly believes Simon will provide the spark this Pirates team needs to avoid a five-game losing streak.

Horwitz batted leadoff yesterday after not playing in the first game of the series. The 27-year-old went 1-4 as the Pirates have given up 14 runs in his last two times in the lineup. The first baseman has tallied five hits in his last three games.

While his sample size at leadoff clears every other spot in the lineup, Horwitz has grown comfortable with his position. He's slashing .284/.345/.450 when batting first, a clear difference from his .205/.276/.282 when in the cleanup spot.

The Pirates will be facing Woodruff for the first time since September 5, 2023. It will be the first time either Horwitz or Simon are facing the 32-year-old.