Pirates Shuffle Rotation by Calling Up Prospect

Pirates Send Down Mlodzinski, Call Up Burrows

Except for five appearances as an “opener,” Mlodzinski pitched out of the bullpen in 2023 and 2024. As a rookie in 2023, he emerged as a reliable high-leverage option, posting a 2.25 ERA, 10 “holds,” and a save in 35 games. After last season, the Pirates and Mlodzinski mutually agreed to move him to the starting rotation. As a starter in 2025, he struggled to a 1-4 record, 5.67 ERA, and 1.613 WHIP.

The decision to send Mlodzinski down is a curious one. He’s pitched well the first time through the order, as demonstrated by his 2.67 ERA for the first three innings. He could have been kept with the big club to help an inconsistent bullpen. Furthermore, he’s been a little better lately. In three games from April 30 to May 11, he’s given up just four runs in 14 1/3 innings. However, in his most recent game, he gave up four earned runs in 3 1/3 innings in Philadelphia. The Pirates probably see that less as an aberration. The decision demonstrates the Pirates’ belief that Mlodzinski can become a solid starter.

With No. 1 prospect Bubba Chandler continuing to ply his trade at Indianapolis, Burrows wasn’t the prospect pitcher that Pirates fans wanted to see, but he’s the one who will step in for Mlodzinski. The right-handed Burrows, 25, is the Pirates’ No. 15 prospect. He’s kept pace with his more famous counterpart, Chandler, who started the Spring Breakout Game this season. At Indy, Burrows is 2-1 with a 2.51 ERA and 1.052 WHIP. Chandler has posted an identical 2-1 record with a 2.17 ERA and 1.125 WHIP.

Pirates Should Get Extended Look At Burrows

The Pirates gave Burrows a brief, one-game taste of the majors last season, when he gave up one earned run in 3 1/3 innings in relief of Paul Skenes at Yankee Stadium. He was with the Pirates earlier this season without making an appearance. Presumably, he’ll get a longer look this time around.