Pittsburgh Pirates News & Notes

Pittsburgh (KDKA)- Here are some news and notes from the Pittsburgh Pirates heading into this afternoon's game vs. Baltimore.

*The team has re-acquired shortstop Josh Rodriguez from the Cleveland Indians for cash consideration. Rodriguez has been assigned to Triple-A Indianapolis. Two months earlier, the Pirates returned Rodriguez to Cleveland after selecting him in the Rule 5 Draft. This appears to just be a trade for depth and could also spell the end for Pedro Ciriaco.

*Charlie Morton will not make his next start on Sunday due to fatigue in his pitching arm. The team wants to give Morton an 11 day break before making his next start July 1st against Washington. The Pirates won't need to bring up another starting pitcher because they are off on Thursday and Monday. James McDonald will pitch on 4 days rest Sunday vs. Boston.

*Joe Beimel, who's currently on the disabled list, threw a bullpen session Monday. The left-hander reported no pain and is scheduled to throw another one today. It has not yet been determined when or where Beimel will start his rehab assignment.

*Highly touted prospect Luis Heredia made his pro debut yesterday with the Gulf Coast Pirates. The 16-year old pitched 2.2 innings, allowing two earned runs, one hit and three walks.

*Mike Crotta, who made the Pirates roster out of spring training, has moved up from Altoona to Indianapolis, as he continues his rehab assignment. Crotta is on the disabled list with right posterior elbow inflammation.