PITTSBURGH (93-7 The FAN) — Pirates pitching prospect Gerrit Cole made his Double-A debut Wednesday night with the Altoona Curve, pitching five innings.

Cole allowed just two runs and struck out six batters.He threw 52 strikes on 74 pitches.

Cole, the Pirates first overall pick in the 2011 MLB Draft, was promoted from Low-A Bradenton last week.

Another pitching prospect, Luis Heredia, is slated to make his first start in State College tonight at just 17 years old. He told the Tribune Review he’s excited for the opportunity.

“I’m very happy, and I’m ready for this opportunity,” Heredia said. “I played against older players (as an amateur in Mexico), so I feel that I am ready to compete here.”

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Other Prospect News:

• The Pirates announced the signings of draft picks Adrian Sampson (fifth round), D.J. Crumlich (ninth round) and Chris Diaz (11th round).

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Chris Gates | Bucs Blog
Twitter.com/Chris_Gates
Chris.Gates@cbsradio.com